Andrew “Andy” David Ward

Andrew David Ward passed away on August 14, 2020 in a canoeing accident on Lake Nighthorse in Durango, CO. He was sixty.  Andrew "Andy" Ward was born in Butte Montana on May 30, 1960 to Arne and Judy Ward.  He grew up in Evergreen, CO and graduated from Evergreen High School in 1978. He attended UNC in Greeley, and Colorado Mountain College in Leadville, before moving to Durango, CO in 1981.  Andy spent most of his life outdoors, working in the ski industry as a snow cat driver.  He was known to be one of the best drivers on the mountain and in the back country.  Andy was also an excellent woodsman, who in the off season would use his lumberjack skills to provide firewood for the Durango community, do fire mitigation and clear trails for new ski runs.  He loved to be on his bike, exploring the Durango area and discovering new places. He also had a deep affinity for the desert, and spent a lot of time in Marble Canyon AZ, exploring and  working for his good friend, Don. Andy had an artistic side and enjoyed photography.  He would frequently discover some treasure, be it an interesting rock, a twisted piece of wood or shards from antique glass and incorporate those into his outdoor rock garden. Andy was a well known figure in Durango, and would always have a joke to tell or an opinion to share.  Andy packed a lot of living into his 60 years, and although he died prematurely, he died doing what he loved - being outside, exploring and enjoying the moment.  Andy will be sorely missed by his family and his wonderful circle of friends.

Andy is survived by his parents, Arne and Judy Ward of Evergreen, Co, his sister Amy Stephenson of Pine, CO, and his niece and nephew Bronwyn and Logan.