It is very sad to see Ward go. He was a friend and co-worker who got shit done. We relied on him for his expertise and throughout the years he performed spot on. We put crews in Bravo and now the good Lord wants him in Charlie. Tammy, you are very strong but please use the TACC "family" for support and let us help in any capacity needed. I look around the "floor" and see solumn faces still in disbelief. Ward will not be forgotten and it was a pleasure working, joking, and sharing the good ole "TDY" stories with him. Peace be with the Heffner family and God Bless.
Steve and Annette Taylor Fairview Heights IL 62208
Ward, I'm going to miss you brother. All the help you gave to me and my family, I will never be able to repay. You have a safe journey and one day we will have a beer together! Tammy, God needed him more tha we needed him. God bless you all!
Dexter Joseph Dover Delaware 19901
I flew with Ward for several years in the Air Force. He was a great mentor with a persistant positive attitude. He will be greatly missed by many.
Jeff Stopa Indianapolis Indiana 46221
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the mornings hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
Do not stand by my grave and weep,
I am not there... I do not sleep.
I am the thousand winds that blow,
I am the winter snow.
I am the autumn leaves that fall,
I am the summer sun on the concert hall.
I am the spring flowers under your feet,
Isn't that neat?
Do not stand by my grave and cry,
I am not there... I do not sleep.
-Mary Elizabeth Frye
Tim O'Donnell Vail AZ 85641
Too soon my friend, too soon. Just talked with Ward the morning of his accident. We had our usual "bantering" and jokes...just like back on the floor of TACC! Those days are a very fond memory for me and several others that served with Ward. Always a go-getter and ready for any challenge, he was good friend and great Duty Officer. Ward, Mike Wood, and I all retired from the TACC floor back in the summer of 2010. One day we'll ride skies again, drink beer, and tell stories! Until then, my friend.
Jon Colon Saint Louis MO 63101
I wish I could be there for you Tammy! I pray God will wrap you and the kids in His arms and the angels will minister to your heart! We love you! Ward will be missed and always remembered!
Lavonda & Phil Hurd Douglas Georgia 31535
Ward, I heard of your passing and my heart broke. How many times I relied on you as a DO and as a flight mamager to help me save the lives of the wounded warriors, not always were we able, but we did our best. Always you had a smile and a can do attitude. There will be many in heaven thanking you for all you did. I hate the saying the good die young, but after 30 years in healthcare, i think there is a truth to it. Go in peace brother!
Kris Rowe swansea il 62226
Off we go into the wild blue yonder,
Climbing high into the sun;
Here they come zooming to meet our thunder,
At 'em boys, Give 'er the gun! (Give 'er the gun now!)
Down we dive, spouting our flame from under,
Off with one helluva roar!
We live in fame or go down in flame. Hey!
Nothing'll stop the U.S. Air Force!
Tammy, So sorry for your loss Ward will be missed.
Bob Roth (Ret) USAF Frederica DE 19946
Tammy and family, you have our deepest sympathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you in this terrible time.
Curt & Mary Anne Funk Dover DE 19901
Tammy, may God raise you up on eagles wings while you, Corey, Jeremy & Kate walk through this valley. We love and cherish the many memories with Ward, a great man, a devoted father, a beautiful husband and extraordinary friend. We love you guys very much.
Gene and Theresa Diemer Spangdahlem AFB Germany 09123
I had the privilege of working with Ward for the last 5 years at TACC. Many good times and will always consider him a friend. My prayers go out to Tammy, the kids , and the entire Heffner family.
Chad Christopherson Caseyville IL 62232
I had the privilege of working with Ward for the last 5 years at TACC. Many good times and will always consider him a friend. My prayers go out to Tammy, the kids , and the entire Heffner family.
Chad Christopherson Caseyville IL 62232
Ward was an outstanding brother in arms, friend, flight engineer and husband. His humor and positive outlook always kept us pointed in the right direction. He will be missed greatly. Our deepest sympathies to Tammy, may God be with you in your time of sorrow.
Michael "Lumpy" Koss, 4AS 1997 - 2001
Michael J. Koss Clovis New Mexico 88101
Just want to let you know your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May all Gods grace be with you and your family.
The Blake Family Mascoutah Illinois 62258
A perfect aviator,
A patient friend,
A respected husband & a loved father!
You are missed but most importantly will never be forgotten.
We wish we could have one more minute with those we love, so live in that minute every day.
Mike and Cindy Cox Mascoutah IL 62258
A perfect aviator,
A patient friend,
A respected husband & a loved father!
You are missed but most importantly will never be forgotten.
We wish we could have one more minute with those we love, so live in that minute every day.
Mike and Cindy Cox Mascoutah IL 62258
Ward, I heard a song this morning that describes you totally. The song "You are My Hero". You are my hero and I could not be more proud of you. You served our country with respect,dignity, and pride. I thank you for your service in protecting our freedom. I love you and will miss you terribly. I will miss all our phone calls and visits along the way. I am thankful that I had 45 years with you. Rest in peace and may we meet in the heavens. I love you always, Aunt Gena
Teresa Spratt Atlanta GA 30084
Heff- You will be missed.
MSgt Eric Roche (Ret) USAF LEBANON IL 62254
Tammy, I just heard about Ward. My heart aches for you and the kids. Your family was the epitome' of togetherness. I pray that God's peace and comfort continually wash over your family and may He be your source of strength.
Andi Sergent Marydel DE 19964
To the family of MSgt Heffner, I extend my sincerest condolensces. I had the pleasure of working with him at the TACC. He was always a joy to be around. He is missed dearly.
Bre
Breshawn Jeffery O'Fallon IL 62269