Final Salute

Alvis W. (Butch) Ward, Jr., 80, died on January 30, 2026, as a result of kidney cancer.

He was the son of Alvis W. Ward, Sr. and Mary Ward. He grew up on Saratoga Street in the city of Utica and proudly served in the United States Navy during Vietnam as a Seabee. “We build, We fight, We are joined at the hip. Seabees Can Do.”

Alvis worked for many years in heavy construction and also as a rough and finished carpenter. He was a proud member of the Carpenters’ Union until his retirement in 2010.

Alvis lost the love of his life, Nancy Kopec, in April of 2000.

He had a passion for fishing and hunting and loved being outdoors. He was happiest in his camouflage or his fishing gear, spending time on the mountain or at Black Lake or Chippewa Bay, NY.

Alvis was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Therena Elliott of Sacramento, CA; three brothers, Gary M. Ward of Rio Linda, CA, Russell Ward of Roseville, CA, and Jeffrey A. Ward of Herkimer, NY, and of course, his love, Nancy.

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Beverley of Rio Linda, CA, together with many true and wonderful friends, not to mention his countless hunting, fishing, and construction buddies.

There will be no calling hours.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica.

Semper Fi, Seabee.
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