Michael Joseph Ward, a true Gentleman, passed away after a short illness on Friday 25th July. A respected figure, he lived modestly in Draperstown for most of his life as a confirmed bachelor and tee-totaller. Shortly before his death he was proud to receive his pioneer gold pin marking his fifty years of abstinence. He was better known for his many years as referee for the GAA demonstrating that discerning judgement and fairness for which he was renowned. It was in his later years that he achieved one of his life's ambitions- to visit the hallowed grounds of Croke Park. It didn't matter to him that Derry, his favoured team, was not playing that day. He was simply overjoyed to see a live game of his greatest passion being played. He was also able to bring Gaelic Football alive for me, a mere Englishman ignorant of the nuances and subtleties of the match. He taught me that it was not so much the score that was important, it was the taking part and to be a spectator at a live match you were just as much part of the event. Another of his passions was bowling and he was an active member of the local team. His generous, caring nature and love of animals was epitomised when he took on the task of looking after his hospitalised aunt's dog. He would regularly take her dog to the hospital and hold it up to the window much to the amusement of the staff and visitors but to the delight of his Aunt Rosaleen. Michael was very loathe leaving Draperstown, even for a short while but loved to hear tales of far off places. At 65 he achieved another ambition visiting the island of Rhodes with his sister, Marie and myself. He enjoyed the experience but was relieved to return to his beloved Draperstown. Michael's last years before his retirement were spent as the road crossing patrol officer at St Colm's High School and St Mary's Primary School before moving to the seclusion of Oak Park just outside the town. In accordance with his wishes he spent his final days in this peaceful setting nursed and attended by his loved ones. He was laid to rest on a sunny Sunday morning, 27th July 2008, at St Columba's, Straw where he had been a member of the choir for many years. Leslie Bedell Courtesy of the Mid Ulster Observer July 31st Tweet

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