Helen Lucille Ward, 91, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Helen was born on May 15, 1934, in Dubuque, the daughter of Nicholas and Charlotte (Droese) Miller She married William (Doc) C. Ward on Friday, August 13, 1954, and he preceded her in death on March 31, 2014.

Mom loved to cook and sew and loved a great game of cards and family gatherings. She embroidered many tablecloths which will be cherished for years to come. She was especially proud that she made all the bridesmaid dresses for Cindy’s wedding. She enjoyed the trips with dad and was lucky at winning Bingo’s in Las Vegas and wherever she played.

She was a devoted wife and mother and was especially fond of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be forever missed.

Survivors include her two children: Cynthia (Gary) Riniker of Bernard, IA and William J. (Janet) Ward of Tucson, Arizona; three grandchildren: Leann (Michael) Pursell of Clarksville, Tennessee, Joseph Riniker of Evansville, Wisconsin, and Lisa Riniker of Dubuque, IA; nine great grandchildren: Michael and Henry Pursell of Clarksville, Tennessee, Maleah and Chasity Riniker of Janesville, Wisconsin, Grace and Wesley Riniker of Evansville, Wisconsin,  Kailee DeMoss of Monmouth, IA, Wyatt DeMoss and Evelynn Riniker of Dubuque, Iowa. Her two sisters: Marion Wiezorek and Jean Rubie; her brother Ronald Miller; sister-in-law Marlene Troy and a special niece Brenda Leib McChristy along with many nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents Nicholas and Charlotte; her husband William; a son Michael Ward; five brothers, John, James, Lavern, Edward, and Robert Miller; two sisters Jane Palm and Betty Billmeyer and four infant siblings, Loretta, William and twins Carolyn and Marilyn Miller; and several brother and sister in laws.

Helen’s family would like to thank Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all their care.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Helen’s memory.