Richard Earl Ward “Papa Bear, Rick”, 54, of Paris, Illinois passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. in Union Hospital in Terre Haute, Indiana. He was born to Elvis Ward and Grace (Conover) Ward on July 11, 1972 in Paris, Illinois.

Rick grew up in Paris, Illinois and graduated from Paris High School. While in high school, he played the saxophone in the school band and was on the wrestling team. It was on the wrestling team that Rick got the nicknames Paul Bunyan, Jr. and The Lumberjack. He also worked at the Halls of Madness while in school. After graduating, Rick joined the United States Navy and proudly served until he was medically discharged. He also enjoyed playing pool, picking on his daughters, and aggravating his mom with his GPS voice. His true love were his grandchildren. Rick was the best father anyone could have asked for and he would do anything for anybody.

Rick is survived by his mother; daughter, Brooklyn Ward (Nate); step-daughter, Jacqueline Svitek; and his grandchildren, David Smith, Edie Ross, Harlow Goodman, and Ajay White.

Rick is preceded in death by his father; brother, Elvis “Butch” Allen; soulmate, Kimberly “Mama Bear” Ward; and his step-daughter, Heather Svitek.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Cremation has been entrusted to Samaritan Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.samaritanfunerals.com