Kevin "Champ" Ward

On Wednesday, November 13, Kevin “Champ” Ward, a beloved figure of Chapel Road, passed away at just 54 years of age. Known for his hearty laugh, his loyalty to friends and family, and his unbreakable love for his garage, Kevin’s passing has left a profound void in the lives of everyone who knew him.

Kevin was born on August 17, 1970, Battle Day Weekend, to Mary Harrington Ward (Palmer), joining his older brother, Gary. From a young age, Kevin was a spirited and mischievous child, more inclined to follow his heart than his textbooks. His favorite teacher, Diane Morrissey took Kevin under her wing and they carried a special bond throughout his life.

Champ attended Mount Anthony Union High School, where he earned a reputation for his chronic tardiness—except for Mr. Bugbee’s machine shop class, where a minute's lateness cost him a letter grade. Kevin graduated in 1990, then embarked on a career breeding cows as an AI Technician with Eastern, now Genex Cooperative.

Over the next three decades Kevin grew to be widely respected in the farming community. Champ built lasting friendships with many farmers across New York, Vermont, and Massachusetts. His favorite time of year was during the Holidays when he would personally deliver New Skete Cheesecakes to show his gratitude for their friendship.

Kevin purchased the Robinson homestead on Chapel Road in 2001, and quickly transformed his garage into a social hub. Everyone knew that Champ’s garage was always open for a conversation and a coldie. Anyone who knows Champ, knows he never ventured too far from his garage. Whatever happened in the garage STAYED in the garage.

On October 8, 2010, Kevin married Jessica Gulley at the White Chapel, just down the road from their home. In July 2017, they welcomed Lucy Belle, a goldendoodle who instantly made them a family of three. "Hello my girls!" Champ would say, greeting Jessica and Lucy with boundless energy. They built a beautiful life together albeit short; life with Champ was always an adventure.

One of Kevin’s greatest loves was PSU Football and Coach Joe Paterno. Saturdays were considered sacred during college football season; he immersed himself in every play without interruption. Kevin had the joy of visiting Beaver Stadium twice with his friend, Scott Hurley—a dream come true for this dedicated fan.

A close second to PSU football for Champ was fishing - ice fishing and deep sea fishing. He’d sit for hours on an ice covered Lake Paran. And the only time he’d voluntarily wake up early was for deep sea fishing in Maine or to jump on the boat with Big Al in Florida. Champ could walk better on a boat than on dry ground!

The sudden loss of Champ’s brother Gary in April 2014, followed by the death of his best friend, Mike “Donk” Billert in December 2014, and then his mother Mary in December 2023 marked heartbreaking milestones in Kevin’s life. It is comforting knowing the four of them are now reunited and what a reunion it must have been.

Kevin’s legacy is being kept alive by his wife Jessica; his niece, Ashley Ward; his beloved cousin, Dave “Big Daddy” Mattison; and best friends Chad Skinner, Ron “Buzzy” Daniels, Jon Davis, Jason Tudor, Willy Hall, Allen “Big Al” Gulley, Richard Morgan, and many, many more. His Aunt Flossie and Uncle Bob Nolan and Uncle Charles Harrington, as well as countless cousins, all hold cherished memories of their time with him and will grieve his presence. Kevin will also be deeply missed by Jessica’s parents, Jim and Carolee Gulley; her brothers, Sheriff James Gulley Jr. and his wife Katie, Jonathan Gulley, and their “littles” Colin, Willow, Logan, and Asher.

Mark your calendars for 2:30pm Saturday, November 30 for a short graveside service at the Center Shaftsbury Cemetery in Shaftsbury, VT followed by a jovial celebration of life at 3:30pm at the VFW on North Street in Bennington, VT. Please bring your funniest and most memorable Champ story to share.

Kevin often said, “When the Good Lord wants you, the Good Lord takes you.” Though his time came too soon, we find solace in knowing he no longer suffers. A legend truly disappeared before his time. Champ Dog, we will carry your memory forward—your laughter, your loyalty, your strength—forever in our hearts.