Herman Ward

Herman Ward, 91, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2020 at his beloved residence – Silver Lake Commons.

He was born in Monessen, Pa., November 2, 1928, son of the late Edward Ward, Sr. and Margaret Washington Ward. He was born seventh of 15 siblings.

Herman graduated from Monessen High School where he was affectionately referred to as “Flash” and widely admired for his love for all popular dances, particularly the Jitterbug.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War where he received recognition for his hard work and leadership, including being invited as one of the only African Americans to participate in the Enlisted Army Intelligence Course at Fort Riley, Kans. in 1952.

After leaving the military, he became a resident of Pittsburgh and a respiratory therapist at the Veterans’ Administration Hospital in Aspinwall, Pa. for 28 years.

Herman was a dedicated member of Silver Lake Commons from day one at the ribbon cutting ceremony. From then, he was affectionately named the “Mayor of Silver Lake”. He would often host events at the building such as “movie night”, where he hosted with popcorn, drinks and a friendly smile for all of the residents.

Advocating for the community was always his passion. He was a speaker at the Implosion Ceremony of East Hills High Rise, his previous residence, alongside the Mayor and the presiding Councilwoman of the City of Pittsburgh. He also testified on behalf of Pittsburgh senior citizens at the Aging and Older Adult Services Public Committee Hearing at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in 2004 where he was formally acknowledged and thanked by the Committee for his dedication.

Herman was also known for his love of art. He created many beautiful landscapes using food as a medium that he named “Foodtography”. His work has been displayed at many events and shows - most prominently at Vintage Senior Center. His work was so fun and appreciated that he was asked to teach art classes at local schools and was published by the International Library of Photography.

Herman was preceded in death by his son, Eric; his wife, Ernestine; his brothers: Edward Jr., Albert, Ernest, Newton Edward, Donald, and Robert; and his sisters: Dorothy, Edna, Harriet, Mary and Robert’s twin sister who was stillborn at birth.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Donna and Diana (Ronn); three sisters: Darleene, Millie, and Lois; four grandchildren: Erika, Darrell, Jessica, and Kaylin; two great-grandchildren: Jordan and Cameron; a great-great granddaughter, Eloise, born just one day before he passed; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and dear friends.

Herman Ward was a kind-hearted man, loved by all that knew him. He was the most generous man many had ever encountered and the light he brought to every room he entered will be missed every day.

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