Anneliese Henrietta Ward, 98, passed away peacefully on Nov. 16, 2025, at Medicalodges in Great Bend, Kan. She was born Nov. 6, 1927, in Stafford, to Erich and Hedwig (Hupe) Fruehauf. She married Samuel J. Ward July 17, 1949, in Hudson. He passed away May 11, 2019.

Anneliese was a proud farmer’s wife; making sure that dinner was on the table, the home was well kept, the children were taken care of, their garden was bountiful and raising chickens. She loved to sew and quilt and gift her creations to family and friends. She was a faithful member of First Christian Church. She enjoyed having the church ladies over for tea and fellowship at her home. 

Survivors include son, Robert Ward of Anthony; daughter, Mildred Dills of Hutchinson; sisters, Hildegard Shewbart of Great Bend, Elenora Putnam of Arkansas; grandchildren, Donnie Beeler, Duane Spears, Tracey Spears; many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband of 69 years; daughter, Karen Spears; brother, Adalbert ‘Al’ Fruehauf; son in laws, Bennie Dills and Al Spears.

Graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, at Great Bend Cemetery with Pastor Josh Leu presiding. Visitation will be available from noon to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, with family receiving from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to First Christian Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 18, 2025