Ward Ellsworth Orr

Ward Ellsworth Orr, 78, of Sioux City, passed away Tuesday, February 23, 2021.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 P.M. Thursday, March 4, 2021 at Sioux City Baptist Church. Reverend Quentin Vaugh will officiate. Visitation with family present will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. with a prayer service at 6:00 P.M. on Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel. Interment with military honors will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. Online condolences can be expressed at www.meyerbroschapels.com.

Ward was born April 14, 1942 in Sioux City, the son of Ward W. and Minnie (Betsworth) Orr. He grew up in Sioux City and graduated from Central High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served for 4 years. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, he worked at Nedehal Packing for 9 years then worked at MidAmerican Energy Company, previously IPS, for 32 years until his retirement, first as a meter reader then a pipefitter.  On March 18, 1961, he married Hermina “Sandy” VanderVeen in San Diego, CA. To this union, 5 children were born. Sandy preceded Ward in death on November 13, 2008.

Ward was a devoted member of Sioux City Baptist Church where he served as an Usher. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for many years. He was also a member of the American Legion.

Ward was a life-long fisherman. He enjoyed camping, gardening, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory are his children, Susan Cole of Sioux City, Mark (Pam) Uden of Sioux City, Cindy (Bill) Steele of Sioux City, Julie (Dale) Graves of Le Mars, IA; brothers Wesley Orr of Sioux City and Jerry Orr of Sioux City; grandchildren Scott, Chad, BJ, Markie, Joe, Christina, Stephanie, Derek, Ashton; 26 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; special friend Kay Waltz of Sioux City; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son Ward Orr Jr, and sisters Nancy McKinney and Connie Streeter.