Leo J. Ward, 84, of Gettysburg, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Leo was born May 23, 1941, in Pittsburgh, PA. He was one of ten children to the late Frank and Eleanor Ward. He graduated from South Hills High School in Pittsburgh. He received a bachelor's degree in secondary education from Western New Mexico University and a master's degree in athletic administration from Penn State University. He was passionate about teaching and coaching. Leo coached athletes at all levels from high school to Olympic medal winning and professional athletes. He was the head football coach at Gettysburg High School from 1971-1977, where he coached Blue Mountain League Championship teams as well as coached championship high school teams in Florida and Arizona. He retired professionally in 1999 as the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Illinois, a position he started in 1987. In 2003 he was inducted into the Western New Mexico University's Athletic Hall of Fame.

Leo enjoyed hunting, fishing and especially spending time with his family.

Leo is survived by the love of his life, Nancy Redfern Ward, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage.

In addition to his wife, Leo is survived by two daughters, Terri Sanders and her husband June Sanders of Fairfield, PA, and Amy Ward and her husband Peter Morgan of Carlisle, PA; a grandson, Bradley Stephens and his wife Katelyn of Fairfield, PA; a granddaughter, Erin Stephens of Fairfield, PA; a granddaughter, Eleanor Morgan of Carlisle, PA, and a great granddaughter, Evelyn Stephens of Fairfield, PA.

A private service was held with family to honor Leo's life.

Peters Funeral Home, 321 Carlisle Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.PetersFuneralHome.com.