Gloria Ward

  Gloria A. Ward, 82, Grand Forks, ND, died Friday, March 31, 2017 in Altru Hospital of Grand Forks. Gloria Ann Beebe was born December 28, 1934 in Grand Forks, the daughter of John and Ann (Geiger) Beebe. She was raised and educated in Grand Forks and graduated from Central High School. She earned her Bachelor Degree from Bradley University of Peoria, IL, then moved to Wichita, KS, and later to San Diego, CA where she owned and operated Old Town Jewelers. Gloria moved to Grand Forks in 1983 and worked for several jewelry stores, but also made jewelry in her home. Gloria was a very free spirited individual. In her younger days, she enjoyed sailing, scuba diving, riding her horse, racing Alpha Romeo sports cars and attending the Sturgis, SD biker rally. Gloria loved to sew and quilt. She enjoyed carpentry, but was also very artistic and created stained glass windows and built furniture. She also loved to travel around the United States and spend winter months in south Texas. Survivors include her children, Rochana Powell, Wichita, KS, Thane Powell, Wichita, KS and Yllandra Bosman, Grand Forks; grandchildren, Kasmira, Crystal, Catrina, Brandon, Jon, Christi, David and Dustin; 11 great grandchildren; and Gloria’s longtime companion, Joel Altendorf, Grand Forks. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral Services will be 2:30 PM Monday, April 3, 2017 in Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the funeral home.