Ward E. Underwood

Ward E. Underwood, 80 years old, passed away at 6:47 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at Memorial Hospital, South Bend.  Ward was born on March 8, 1946 in Frankfort, IN to the late Ward B. and Betty J. (Harshman) Underwood.  On December 18, 1971 in Mishawaka, Ward and Kathryn J. Piatkowski were united in marriage.

Along with Kathy, his loving wife of 54 years, Ward is survived by their children, Scott Underwood of South Bend, Carrie Underwood of South Bend, Jennifer (Matt) Allison of Indianapolis, and Stephen (Katie) Underwood of South Bend.  He is also survived by his seven grandchildren who he loved so very much, Jacob, Lucas, Lauren, Logan, Maddux, Bryce and Reese.  Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Underwood.

Ward was a devoted father, educator, coach and lifelong lover of sports.  After obtaining his master’s degree from Ball State University, he spent 41 years as a passionate teacher at LaVille Jr.-Sr. High School, where he impacted countless students not only through academics but through his steady encouragement, patience, and belief in their potential. He was a long time Junior class sponsor involved with Prom, Driver’s Education Instructor, Business Department Chair and helped implement the PSI (Postponing Sexual Involvement) program, which he was very proud of. 

Beyond the classroom, Ward was best known for his years of coaching baseball, basketball and tennis. Whether on the field, court, or sidelines, he was a mentor who taught far more than the rules of the game.  His players will remember him not only for his knowledge of the game, but for the life lessons he carried into every practice and every season.  A true sports enthusiast, Ward found joy in all aspects of the game-watching, coaching, discussing, and celebrating it.  Later in life, he found great joy watching his grandchildren compete.    

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at the Palmer Funeral Home, within the Palmer Community Complex, 601 N. Michigan Street, Lakeville.  Rev. Mark Hellinger will officiate.  Graveside services will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka.  Friends may visit with the family from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.  Friends may also visit with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Ward E. Underwood may be donated to the LaVille Jr.-Sr. High School Athletic Programs, 69969 U.S. 31 South, Lakeville, IN 46536.  Online condolences may be offered to Ward’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.    

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