In Loving Memory of Alfred D. Ward

Alfred D. Ward, a remarkable man whose indomitable spirit and unwavering passion touched the lives of many, peacefully passed away on December 12, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born in Elmore City, Oklahoma, to proud parents Joe and Alma Ward. He would have celebrated his 91st birthday on December 20th.

Alfred, the second of three brothers, was a proud member of the Nevada County Sportsman Club and found joy in the camaraderie of shooting trap with his friends. Since 2000, Alfred has been a member of the American Custom Gunmaker’s Guild, where tested and qualified professional members are craftsperson’s who actively work in the custom gun-making trade. A true craftsman, Alfred devoted over 35 years to owning and operating Al’s Custom Stocks, showcasing his self-taught skills that earned him recognition in prestigious publications such as the Shooters Bible and Rifle Magazine. Even amid his battle with cancer, Alfred’s commitment to his craft persisted until he began treatment on October 5th.

Leaving home and high school at the age of 16, Alfred embarked on a journey that would shape him into the extraordinary individual he became. His education, gleaned from a life rich in experience, was complemented by his service in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956, where he honed his skills as an electrician and lineman. 26 days after his honorable discharge, Alfred was hired by PG&E, rising through the ranks from lineman to crew foreman, area supervisor, and finally, Electric Construction Supervisor at the Grass Valley, CA yard, from where he retired after an illustrious 31-year career in 1987.

Alfred’s zest for life extended beyond his professional achievements. A cowboy at heart and a former Team Roper, he was also an avid hunter, and a captivating storyteller, sharing his passions with a close-knit group of friends, known as the Friday Guys, who gathered at his shop each week to swap tales of shooting, hunting, and family. In his off time, he loved all westerns with John Wayne and all the Gunsmoke TV shows.

Alfred is survived by the love of his life, Carole, with whom he shared 38 wonderful years of marriage. His legacy lives on through his sons from a previous marriage (35 years), Steven (Melvina) and Brad (Cindy), stepdaughters Doreen Clemons (Cliff) and Coleen Rosinsky (Derick), numerous grandchildren, and his cherished Border Collie, LC.

He was preceded in death by his older brother, Joe Lee, and his younger brother, Randy.

A celebration of Alfred’s life with an Honor Guard will be held on January 19, 2024, at 11 am at Hooper & Weaver Mortuary‎, 459 Hollow Way, Nevada City, CA 95959.

A reception will follow at the North Star House, 12075 Auburn Rd. Grass Valley, CA 95949.

A private burial will take place on Monday, January 22, 2023, at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Alfred’s name be made to Sammie’s Friends, Nevada County Animal Shelter, at 14647 McCourtney Rd, Grass Valley, CA 95949, or online at https://www.sammiesfriends.org/donate. Your contributions will honor Alfred’s love for animals and support a cause close to his heart.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hooper & Weaver Mortuary.