Monte Wayne Ward, 78, shifted into his heavenly gear Sunday, Feb. 2. He lives on through the memories made of metal and in the hearts and actions of his loved ones.
Monte was born June 9, 1946 in Springfield, Mo., and lived most of his life in region, eventually settling down in Carl Junction. Tales are told of his daring-do in learning to hot rod to help his father with their moonshine runs. He fell in love with the combustion engine and designing cars not just for speed, but also for the art form. He used his skills drag racing and helping others build and fine tune their engines. And while fast was important, safety took a top spot as well — especially when working on cars for his family.
He loved spending time in the garage, bringing his visions to life, as well as helping others through his skills. Important cars have included his first new car a ’68 Camaro; the Witch Doctor, a mid-’50s ambulance; the Cudan, part coupe, part sedan; the Mercury, dropped, flame paint job, and hydraulics; the Copperhead, one of the sweetest looking rides you’ll ever see (and hear); and the Dumpster, a work in progress. He’s built too many cars to remember, and even went through motorcycle and speed boat phases. Truly a life enjoyed at speed but with the contentment of being well loved.
In 2019 he was recognized as a pioneer from the Southwest Missouri Drag Racers group and is part of their Hall of Fame. He loved racing and being at the track.
Then there were summers spent camping with family and friends. His family fondly remembers summers spent on the lake boating and camping. The tales of Crane Indention, the sounds of cicadas, and the freedom of the boat on the water will live on. He endured the love of his family, including the swim trunks that turned into floral design when wet and his kids making his cigarettes explode at the least opportune times.
He is survived by his wife Donna who endured decades of cups of ice tea and rusty cars living in the garage; his eldest daughter Jennifer (and husband Scott) who once made him work on a Ford; Heather Duncan (married to Tom), his youngest and a Corvair fan; and his grandkids Keaton and Ashlin. His stepdaughter Holly preceded him.
Services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 at North Main Street Baptist Church, 215 Gum Road Carl Junction, MO 64834. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the National League of POW MIA families (FEIN #23-7071242). Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park, Joplin, MO