Dr. Paul Earl Ward, BHS 1954

Dr. Paul Earl Ward, BHS 1954

JANUARY 30, 1937 – DECEMBER 19, 2018

On Wednesday, December 19, 2018, Dr. Paul Earl Ward passed away at the age of 81. 

Born on January 30, 1937, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Albert and Lovera Ward, Paul is survived by his brother, Dr Bob Ward and sister, Marilyn Lovejoy. Other surviving family members include a sister-in-law, Joyce, and nieces, Shannon Lichty, Erin Symmank and Dana Ward, plus nephews Ron Lovejoy, Stephen Lovejoy and Brad Ward. 

Preceding Paul in death was his other brother, Maurice Ward, who passed away August 30, 2012, as well as siblings Albert and Loraine who died as infants. Paul’s generosity and the quality of standards he set for himself will be fondly remembered by the countless friends made during his life’s journey.

After attending Burbank High School, Paul earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, his Masters from the University of Washington, and his Doctorate from Indiana University in 1973. After receiving his Bachelor’s Degree he served in the US Marines Corps 1958-1961, attaining the rank of Captain, and played on USMC football teams before playing for the NFL Detroit Lions 1961-1962, thus becoming the first Whitworth University graduate to play in the NFL. He went on to teach and coach at numerous colleges, and has served in the following capacities:

• Director of Education, Research & Development for Health and Tennis Corporation of America 1974-89

• Elite Athlete Coordinator, Track and Field—Men & Women Throwers 1972-84

• Exercise and Sports Performance Consultant e.g. Dallas Cowboys Biomechanics Study 1977

• Sports Scientist & author of numerous scientific articles (Biomechanics & Exercise Science)

Paul’s overwhelming passion for life and future thinking had a tremendous influence on sports, coaching and the fitness industry of America during his professional career that spanned

over 40 years. He was passionate about personal fitness and training, winning multiple Masters Olympic lifting championships. In addition, he was devoted to training and coaching many of US Olympic & Elite Track & Field athletes. Paul co-authored with his brother, Bob, a definitive and comprehensive book entitled—ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WEIGHT TRAINING—Understanding the Scientific, Theoretical and Practical Basis of Weight Training.

We will all miss Paul’s compassion, devotion, and commitment to achieving higher goals in every aspect of his life. His sense of humor, his zest for life and his Dare Devil Attitude from his youth to his later years is a trademark to be remembered and emulated by all. A passionate and committed follower of Jesus Christ, Paul’s journey to Heaven is one to be celebrated and one of only peace and joy!

Paul's memorial website is here to celebrate his life so we encourage you to share your memories and stories of Paul as well as share any photos. 

A Memorial Service for Paul will be held on February 16, 2019 2pm at the Pacific View Chapel, 3500 Pacific View Drive, in Corona Del Mar, CA. We welcome everyone who knew Paul to attend to honor, share and celebrate Paul's life.

NOTE: Paul was buried in Pacific View Memorial Park, Corona Del Mar, California.