Ruth Ward, 87, of Iola, Kansas, died Tuesday, December 8, 2009, at Windsor Place Nursing Center in Iola. Ruth was born January 24, 1922, on a farm in Graham County, Kansas. She grew up in Marysville, Kansas and was married to Charles Ward. They were later divorced. She lived in Marysville, Topeka, Wichita and Fall River before moving to Iola in 2000. While in Wichita she worked for the Coleman Company. She enjoyed shopping, playing bingo and traveling. SURVIVORS: Her Companion of 39 Years: Willard "Bill" Sargent of Iola, KS 2 Sons: Monte R. Ward of Kalama, Washington and Mark C. Ward of Topeka, Kansas 1 Daughter: Judy A. Ward of Topeka, Kansas 5 Grandchildren & 15 Great Grandchildren. Cremation has taken place. MEMORIAL SERVICE: A week from Saturday, on December 19, 2009, at 2:00 p.m., at the Waugh-Yokum & Friskel Chapel in Iola. Chaplain Lloyd W. Houk will officiate. Burial of the cremains will be at a later date. Waugh-Yokum & Friskel Memorial Chapel of Iola, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences for the family may be left on this website, www.iolafuneral.com.