I was a band geek.  From 1989-1993 I was in color guard, winter guard, field band, parade band, concert band, and drum circuit.  I started in color guard, however, I blew out my knees my freshman year, and from then on my participation was sporadically based on whether my knees could handle turns, jumps, and “jazz” runs.  Through it all, Chuck was our coach.  He smiled, laughed, yelled, got frustrated, but was always respectful, caring, and pushed us to do our best.  He showed us how.

My tribute at his obituary site:

Chuck was my coach on and off for 4 years. He arrived for his first year at La Canada High School my freshman year. When I blew out my knees and could participate in Color Guard anymore, he was kind and caring. He pushed me when he felt I wasn’t giving my best. He was patient when I didn’t understand something. And when I faked a particular move for the *entire* season because I just didn’t get it – he didn’t say a word. I trusted and respected him as a teacher. I’m so sorry for your loss.

His obituary:

Donald “Chuck” Ward Jr. (January 17, 1962 – August 21, 2010)

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Donald “Chuck” Ward, Jr., 48 of Los Angeles, CA. passed away in London, England on August 21, 2010 with his partner and family at his side. Chuck was a native of Lysander and a 1980 graduate of C.W. Baker High School, Baldwinsville. Chuck received his Master of Arts in Student Development from Azusa Pacific University. Chuck was a Counselor & Professor at Pasadena City College for 22 years. He was also a National Conference judge for various Marching Band and Color guard competitions. Chuck was pre-deceased by his sister, Donna L. Ward of Baldwinsville in 2009. Survivors: His partner of 20 years, Robert Cook, Jr of Los Angeles; his parents, Donald C. and Alice B. Ward of Baldwinsville; five sisters, Sally (Gordon) Clarke of Cato, Norma (Stan) Newman of Sandy Pond, Margaret Seeley of Pulaski, Nancy (Skip) Thomas of Baldwinsville and Kathy (Dave) Rode of Sterling; a great-aunt, Mildred Beebe of Baldwinsville; and several nieces and nephews. Services: Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service on Thursday, September 2, 2010, at 11:00am in Lysander Cemetery, Lysander, NY. Contributions: PCC Scholarship Fund, C/O Cynthia D. Olivo, Ph. D., 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA. 91106.