Victoria L. "Vicki" Ward, age 77 of Darlington, WI passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at her home in Darlington. She was born April 14, 1946 in Monroe, WI the daughter of Leland and Bernice (Bloom) Miller. Vicki grew up on a farm near Monroe, where she developed a strong work ethic and a love for nature. She graduated from Monroe High School. On June 14, 1964, Vicki was united in marriage to Richard H. Ward in Monroe. They farmed together in Wiota Township in Lafayette County, sharing a life of hard work, love, and laughter until their retirement in 1995, when they moved to the city of Darlington.
Vicki was very creative, pouring her passion into quilting, painting, and flower gardening. Her talents were well-known in the community, particularly her beautifully decorated cakes, which graced many weddings. She shared her skills with young minds as a 4-H leader, teaching members how to sew, and she took great pride in helping make one of her daughter's wedding dress. Vicki also tole painted and sold her crafts at shows with friends. Her involvement in the community extended beyond her creative pursuits. Vicki was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Darlington. She was also a member of PEO-Platteville, a former member of the Quilting Guild, and an HCE member.
Vicki's life was a testament to the power of love, creativity, and gentleness. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, the beauty of her creations, and the memories of her generosity and kindness
Surviving Vicki are her husband, Richard H. Ward, at home; her three children, Christine (Jeff) Stauffacher of Monroe, WI, Elizabeth Suchomel of Lancaster, WI, and Richard Jr. (Joan) Ward of Menomonee Falls, WI. She was a doting grandmother to Rebecca (Andrew) Jablonski of Monroe, Abigail Ward, and Lucas Ward, both of Menomonee Falls, and a proud great-grandmother to Emmett Jablonski. Vicki is also survived by her sister, Maribeth Lindstrand of Beloit, WI.
Vicki was preceded in death by her parents, Leland and Bernice Miller, her brother, Phillip Miller, and her niece, Jody (Miller) Ace.
A memorial service will be held Monday, August 21, 2023 at 12:00 P.M. at Immanuel United Church of Christ (339 E. Louisa St., Darlington) with Rev. Mary Gafner officiating. Burial will be in Union Grove Cemetery in Darlington. A visitation will be held Monday, August 21, 2023 from 10:00 A.M. until 11:45 A.M. at Immanuel United Church of Christ. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.
For those who prefer, memorials may be given to the Scleroderma Research Fund (The Scleroderma Research Foundation, 220 Montgomery Street, Suite 484, San Francisco, CA 94104) in Vicki’s name.
