Obituary of Mya Ward

Mya Ward Myra Ora Mabel Sternard, Roggenkamp, Minder, Ward Mya Ward of Camas, WA entered into Glory Friday, Sept 7, 2012 surrounded by family at home. She died due to complications of cancer. She leaves behind her devoted husband George, her children Lea Nicodemus Nick, Troy Minder Teresa and 5 grandchildren Skylar Solander Buer Thor, Luke Minder, Mason Minder, Kathryn Millsap, and Graysen Millsap. Ward family children are John Betsy, Patty Ken, Edyth, and Jason Julie. These families also include numerous grand-children, nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws, and a few out-laws! Her last remaining sibling is Ruth Stephan of Baileys Harbor, WI. She was born March 6, 1938 at home in Sevastopol, WI to Louis & Amanda Mandy Sternard. She began her life as a poor farm girl, and ended up living a rich, loving, and exciting life, in spite of many hardships. One of the many tragedies in her life was a plane accident that killed four of her children – "Rhonie," "Rusty," "Robbie," and Ryan - her husband Lee, and a family friend - Jeannie Vandenberghe in 1964. Despite much sorrow, she found great happiness as well, especially in 2008, when she met her husband, George Ward. He lovingly called her My Award. Mya Ward. They were best friends, and thoroughly enjoyed each others company - having family gatherings, gaming, traveling in the "condo," and playing pinochle. As many last names as she gathered, she also gathered "family" of the heart. As often as not, when her children would come home from school, there would be a senior citizen or neighbor at the table having coffee and conversation. Her pride and joy were her family and her friends, as well as her beloved Lhasa Apso dog "Sadie" who slept on her bed throughout her illness, never leaving her side. She also had a Step-cat "Corky" who eventually "warmed up" to her by lying on her lap through many winter nights. She will be forever known far and wide for her ability to "control" dice, cards, slot-machines, bingo cards and any other game of chance to her favor simply by a whisper and a smile. There just was NO CHANCE for these games of chance to win around these special abilities. Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, September 13th, 2012 at Grace Foursquare Church located at 717 SE Everett Rd. Camas, WA 98607. A social hour will follow in the reception hall. Burial will be private at the Camas Cemetery. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 10AM to 5PM at Straub's Funeral Home. To send condolences or to sign the online guest book please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, gifts of love or donations can be made toward Grace Foursquare Church's memorial fund. 360 834-6336. The family would like to thank each and every one for your love, support and encouragement during this difficult time. We honestly feel your heartfelt compassion and it is helping us deal with the loss of such a wonderful Mother, friend, mentor, political advisor, hostess, and prankster.