Ward Deutscher, 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 17, 2026, at St. Joseph Hospital in Mishawaka, Indiana, from a brief illness. He was born on October 11, 1949, in Niles, Michigan to Ward and Mary Jo Deutcher.
Ward graduated from Niles High School in 1967 and then attended Ferris State College. He specialized in metal fabrication in a management position his entire career. After retirement, he became a public transportation driver for Dial-A-Ride in Niles, Michigan.
Ward was a proud grandfather and adored his two grandchildren, Hunter Bedell and Annelise Bedell. He loved watching Hunter play baseball and Annelise showing her horses. Every Summer he looked forward to spending days on his pontoon boat on Barron Lake with his wife Judy and their three dogs, cruising around then spending time on the “sandbar” with friends. Notre Dame and Chicago Bears were his favorite football teams, and he loved having football parties with friends and family.
Ward was loved by everyone with his infectious smile, sense of humor, and easy-going nature. He never had a bad thing to say about anyone.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Judy Bedell-Deutscher, his step-son, Rick Bedell, and his daughter-in-law Michelle Bedell of Niles, Michigan, grandson, Hunter Bedell and fiancé Audrey Bellina, granddaughter, Annelise Bedell, sister, Cheri Dahlberg, and brother-in-law Dan Dahlberg, of Bradenton, Florida, his two nephews, and three nieces.
Ward was preceded in death by his parents, Ward and Mary Jo Deutscher, brother, Brian Deutscher, and sister Teresa Vanderbeck.
Cremation will take place with no visitation. A Celebration of Life will take place in the Summer on Barron Lake, Niles, Michigan.
Per Ward’s wishes, in lieu of flowers or memorial donations, please honor Ward by donating to cover funeral expenses. Donations may be sent to Judy Bedell-Deutscher, 226 Jackson Street, Niles, MI 49120.
Posted On: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 3:40 PM
