James Patrick Ward II, age 82 of Mount Morris, New York, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, August 8, 2026, leaving behind a life well lived.

Jim was born the son of Dr. James Patrick and Margaret (Schofield) Ward on December 17, 1943, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Prior to his retirement, he was Chief Recreation Therapist for the Finger Lakes DDSO, working out of the Leicester office, where he spent his career doing what he loved: helping others.

Jim never met a stranger, and he made sure of it, striking up a conversation, sharing a story, or landing a well-timed smart remark wherever he went. Sports were in his blood, and he was a die-hard fan of his hometown Rochester Red Wings, proudly being a season ticket holder for many years. He bled Notre Dame blue and gold and happily traded some of that loyalty for Clemson orange the moment his daughter Jennifer became a Tiger. For more than 60 years, he served as a referee for soccer and basketball, as well as an umpire for baseball and softball, and there was nothing he loved more than having the opportunity to inspire the next generation of young athletes. He was famous for quizzing anyone within earshot with his "did you know" sports trivia, and he was always right.

Jim was deeply proud of his daughter Jennifer and was her biggest cheerleader.  He loved her more than anything in the world. He was a profound believer in the power of education and never missed a chance to brag about his daughter's accomplishments. He was a first-class guy, always sharply dressed, quick witted and was always ready to bust your chops with that unmistakable sense of humor. A fish fry at Minnehan's, a good party, and the sight of a fire truck rolling by were simple pleasures that never failed to make him smile. Above all, Jim carried a wealth of knowledge, and he graciously shared his wisdom and advice with anyone lucky enough to cross his path.

He was a wonderful father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  The kind of man whose laughter, stories, and warm heart leave a permanent mark on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Ward) Oliveras, and son-in-law, Stephen Oliveras, of Atlanta, Georgia; grandchildren Ava and Jackson; and his brother, Charles Ward, of Connecticut, along with dear and loving friends. He was predeceased by his father, James Patrick Ward, MD, and his mother, Margaret Ward.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, September 14 from 5-8 pm at ESL Ballpark, Club 3000 suite, One Morrie Silver Way, Rochester, NY 14608, where friends and family will gather to share stories and celebrate a life so well lived.

Arrangements are being handled by the JOHN W. MARTIN FUNERAL HOME, 37 Chapel Street (Route 408), Mount Morris, New York. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of West Seneca (24 Paine Street, East Aurora, NY 14052 or via Venmo @bgcea under the business section).  You may also sign the online registry at www.johnwmartinfuneralhome.com

Email: JohnWMartinFH@aol.com