Margaret Mary O'Rorke Ward, 85

SEATTLE, Wash. - Margaret Mary O'Rorke Ward, died Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Seattle, Wash. She was 85. Margaret and her twin sister, Joan, were born March 5, 1924, in Hasbrouck Heights, N.J. Margaret loved gardening, reading, crossword puzzles, birds, bright colors, and conversation. She also placed a high value on education: she was a substitute teacher, among other positions, and after taking evening classes at Delaware State University to earn her B.A., she graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1996 at the age of 72. Other siblings and her husband, James J. Ward, preceded her in death. Margaret is survived by three daughters: Virginia (Mark), Irene, and Delia; three sons, Peter, Stephen, and Andrew; two grandchildren, Derek (Tara) and Kristin; and two great-grandchildren, Connor and Chase. She also is survived by her twin, Joan Reilly; her sister, Patricia Buono; and other extended family members. Margaret's viewing with a rosary will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Ave., Milford. Mourners are welcome at Margaret's requiem mass, to be held at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, 506 Seabury Ave., Milford, on Friday, July 10 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to one of the following funds: "Touch of Quality" (for caregivers) or "Touch of Care" (for residents) at Foss Nursing Home (Foss Foundation), 13023 Greenwood Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98133.