Denise Marie Ward

Denise Marie Ward, 50, of Waukon, IA, died peacefully of a heart attack Monday, February 10, 2020, at her home. Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 15th, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon with Fr. Mark Osterhaus officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary's Hanover Cemetery in rural Waukon. Friends may call from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Friday at Martin Funeral Home in Waukon, where there will be a 3:30 PM scripture service.

Denise Marie Ward was born December 4, 1969, in Waukon, IA, the daughter of Gary and Ramona (Schwartzhoff) Ward. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary's Hanover Catholic Church in rural Waukon. Denise graduated from Waukon High School in 1988 and attended Capri Cosmetology School in Waterloo, IA. She lived in Cedar Falls, IA, where she worked for Razor's Edge. Denise moved back to Waukon and worked for her parents at GP's City Club for several years. On March 7, 1998, she married Wayne Johnson in Waukon. They later divorced, but remained friends and were committed to raising their children together. Denise worked for Allamakee Community Schools, Mulligan's as a waitress, Fareway in Waukon, and various other jobs. She was currently working for TASC, where she was recently awarded the employee of the month.

Denise was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. She enjoyed music, cooking, arts and crafts, snapchatting, and spending time with her family and friends. Denise had the most giving heart and would do anything for anyone.

Survivors include her children: Molly Johnson and Sam Johnson, both of Waukon; her father Gary Ward of Waukon; three sisters: Tracy (Dave) Ryan of Burr Oak, IA, Sheryl (Rick) Way of Montgomery, IL, and Janice (Jason) Bloxham of Hortonville, WI; her nieces and nephews: Spencer, Hannah, and Zachary Bloxham, and Justin, Natasha, and Austin Ryan; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her mother Ramona.

Honorary casketbearers are her nieces, nephews, and many friends.