Bernie Edward Ward, Jr.

Bernie E. Ward Jr. passed away on April 7th, 2026 in Forest Hill, MD. Born on April 19, 1946, in Baltimore, MD, to Bernie Sr. and Evelyn Ward (Webster), Bernie grew up with a deep appreciation for family and a passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed boating, golfing, and skiing, making annual trips to Vermont and out west. His father, Bernie Sr., hailed from Solomons Island on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, while his mother, Evelyn (Webster), was from Deal Island on the eastern shore. Some of his fondest childhood memories were of summers spent on Deal Island, where he often shared stories of the thrill of jumping off the Deal Island bridge. 

That love for the water stayed with him; as a young man, he bought his first powerboat and spent his time outrunning the marine police and navigating the waters of the Severn River.Bernie graduated from Catonsville High School (Class of 1967) and later attended the University of Maryland. During his late teenage years and early twenties, he worked as a diaper pickup and delivery driver to help pay for college tuition. He was then hired as a collection agent for Montgomery Ward, where he honed his skills and later became a banker in the collections and lending departments at Household, Chase, and Columbia Banks. 

He proudly served in the Maryland National Guard after being drafted during the Vietnam War. 

In the winter, Bernie traded his boat for skis. He learned to ski in the mountains of Vermont, which quickly became one of his favorite passions, leading to many memorable trips out west with close friends. Bernie was also a dedicated member of his social club, the ‘Entertainers,’ where he made lifelong friends whom he cherished deeply throughout his life.

In 1972, Bernie married Cathy Imbach. Together, they built a loving home for their two children, Andrew and Laurie, first in Catonsville and later moving to Ellicott City in 1991. Bernie was a constant presence at his children’s sporting events, where he coached his son in soccer and lacrosse, particularly enjoying lacrosse, which was his favorite sport to follow. 

Unfortunately in 2003 Cathy lost her battle with breast cancer which left a whole in hearts of those who loved her. Seeking the peace of the shore once more, Bernie eventually moved to Salisbury, Maryland, where he married Connie Hooper. He enjoyed this new chapter of life with Connie and their beloved dog, Tucker. They loved spending time with their circle of friends and always looked forward to their annual winter trips to the Florida Keys.

Bernie was preceded in death by Connie in August of 2024 and his older sister, Janet E. (Duff), in December of 2020.Bernie is survived by his children, Andrew (Kristy) and Laurie Scarborough (Brett), and his five grandchildren who brought him great joy: Catherine (13), Caroline (11), William (5), Emma (3), and Jack (11 months). He will be remembered for his love of the water, his adventurous spirit on the slopes, and the enduring friendships he maintained for decades. His family will miss his stories and the steady presence he provided.

Friends and family may gather at Candle Light Funeral Home, 1835 Frederick Road, Catonsville, MD 21228, on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 12:00pm for a Funeral Service. A graveside service will be held at 1:30pm at St. John's Cemetery, 3480 St. John's Lane, Ellicott City, MD 21042. A celebration of life will be held at Turf Valley Resort, 2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042, from 2:00pm-5:00pm.