Julia M. Ward 1928-2022

Born Dec. 20, 1928, in Youngstown, Julia Marie Ward was the fourth of five daughters born to Albert and Jenny Rudolphi Dalessandro. They have all preceded her in death.

Julia married Joe Ward, a graduate of Youngstown State. They left behind large Italian and Irish families to move to Illinois for his job with United Airlines. They traveled frequently, including many trips back to Ohio and one to Italy to visit the town where Julia’s mother was born. Julia lost her husband when he was only 66.

After her children became school-age, Julia started a successful career in real estate. She worked mostly for Starck Real Estate up until about age 80 and truly loved selling her many friends’ homes.

She was devoted to her family and being 100 percent Italian, she always made them lots of pasta. She loved attending their sporting events, graduations and weddings, where she danced with the best of them.

Julia is survived by her children, Debbie (Alan) Fleck of Irving, Texas, Ann Basanez of Arlington Heights, Becky (Mark) Damore of Culver, Ind., Joseph (Lynn) Ward of Lake Barrington and Mary (Tim) Wilcken of Rochester, Minn.; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many extended relatives in Ohio, including cousin, Annamarie Brogley, who was like a sister to her.

Julia was lovingly cared for by Diana Flores.

A Memorial Mass will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2022, at St. Edward Church, with a reception following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Edward Church, 238 Tod Lane, Youngstown, OH 44505, saintedwardparish.org.

(special notice)