Lance Michael Ward, 53, passed away on Nov. 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, passion, and warmth that touched everyone who knew him.
Lance lived life with heart. His deep connection to music was one of the most defining parts of who he was. A talented guitarist and singer, he found joy performing with friends in a garage band in high school, where Guns and Roses “Sweet Child O’Mine” could be heard on repeat. Those who heard him play knew how naturally music flowed from him. Music wasn’t just a hobby for Lance-it was a core part of his identity, a way he expressed emotion, connection, and creativity.
Just as strong as his musical talent was his enthusiasm for sports. He proudly cheered for the Miami Dolphins and the KU Jayhawks, never missing the chance to enjoy a game or share spirited conversations about his favorite teams. His energy and excitement on game day made every moment memorable.
Lance was also deeply artistic and imaginative, someone who saw the world in vibrant colors and endless possibilities. After moving to Las Vegas in 1990 with Michelle Long, Lance discovered a lifelong passion for screen printing. What began as an artistic curiosity quickly became both his craft and his career. He spent most of his life working in screen printing, creating designs, apparel, and artwork that showcased his creativity and talent.
Lance graduated from Triad High School in 1990, and on Nov. 18, 1995, he married Michelle, and Lyric was born. Michelle later became his former spouse.
In later years, Lance shared a long-time loving relationship with Tina Crumrine, forming a close and meaningful bond with her and her granddaughters, Kayiden and Kataliyna, who brought tremendous joy and companionship into his life.
Lance was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jesse R. and Francis E. Farris, and Clyde C. and Elsie M. Ward.
He is survived by his son, Lyric Austin Ward; his parents, Clyde Lee Ward and Janet Sue Ward; his sisters Jennifer Lynn Basch (married to Brian Basch) and Kelly Renee Crain (married to Mark Crain); his brother, Clifton Ryan Ward (married to Katie (Putz) Ward); his beloved nieces and nephews Katherine, Miles, Cole, Owen, Olivia, and Ainslee; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and Tina, Kayiden, and Kataliyna, who held a special place in his heart. His family and friends will forever carry his memory with them.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5, at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home at St. Paul with Pastor Steve Ward officiating. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until service time, Friday, at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Al-Anon Family Groups of Wichita and may be left at or mailed to the funeral home, P.O. Box 272, St. Paul, KS 66771. Online condolences may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.
