Corinth, Maine - Ardene G. Ward, 81, went to Heaven on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 2:30 a.m. His wife, Karen; and son, Matt, were by his side as he entered Heaven's gate and began "stepping into the light." Ardene was raised by his grandparents, Andrew G. and Lucy E. Ward.

He graduated from Mexico High School in 1962, followed by Husson College in 1967. Ardene entered the workforce as a CPA for Isreal Lager for 14 years, teaching at Husson College, he then owned his own accounting business for 24 years before retirement in 2004. He was a faithful member of Charleston Church for more than 50 years and volunteered for Faith Bible College International as a "Goffor" for three years.

Ardene had many passions, including building and flying radio-controlled planes, muscle cars, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, fishing, boxing, and racing. He was part-time comedian, aka the Unknown Comic, always making people laugh. He enjoyed gospel music, creating and giving away more than 43,000 gospel CDs.

In addition to his grandparents, Ardene was predeceased by his first wife of 25 years, Florence (Reynolds) Ward; son, Jospeh I. Ward; and brother, William "Bill" Ward. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Karen Ward, who he loved more than Little Debbie; son, the Rev. Matthew Ward and his wife, Darcy; three perfect grandchildren, Mariah Faunce and husband, Rocky, Macy Bagley and husband, Elijah, and Micah Ward and wife, Savanna; and three great-grandchildren, Axel and Knox Faunce, and Barrett Bagley.

The family would like to express true gratitude to all the people who cared for Ardene at his 22-month stay at Eastside Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Bangor. You treated him and Karen with grace, compassion, and dignity. A special thanks to the team at Constellation Hospice, Angie "Mud" was so special to Ardene and appreciated by Karen. Ali and Tracy were a constant comfort to both Ardene and Karen.

Gifts in Ardene's memory may be made to Faith Bible College International, 29 Main Rd., Charleston, ME. 04422. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor, with the Rev. Paul Rogers officiating. Relatives and friends are welcome to call from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Interment will be held at Corinthian Cemetery, Corinth, following the service. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.