Virgil Ward

Virgil, one of nine children, attended grade school in Easton and then moved with his parents to Amsterdam, Mo where he attended high school, graduating in 1931. On December 3, 1933 he was united in marriage to Cleda Irene Thornbrugh and to this union, four children were born. He was a member of the Church of God (Seventh Day). Virgil began his working career by selling, installing and servicing Delco 32 volt light plants after which he owned and managed Ward Electric Company. In 1950 he and his son began the Bass Buster Lure Company in Amsterdam. Virgil was a devout fisherman and built his reputation through several tournament victories including the 1962 World Series of Sport Fishing, the 1964 National Championship of Fresh Water Fishing and the 1964 Outdoor Writers and broadcasters National Fishing Tournament. By 1963, Virgil was writing a column that appeared in 455 newspapers, was host of a radio show on 200 stations and delighted viewers for years with his nationally syndicated television show “Championship Fishing” which was the #1 rated television show for 24 out of 27 years. He belonged to the Outdoor Writers Association, bass Club and American Federation of Television and Radio Association.

Virgil had a great sense of humor and a strong will.. all the way up to the end. He possessed a competitive nature, but was honest and giving. Outdoor pastimes included deer and quail hunting,, and fishing, of course….especially on the private lakes he built on his farm. He enjoyed the companionship of his bird dogs as well. Virgil, a devoted Christian family man, made memorable annual fishing trips to Canada. As one of the nation’s best-known fishermen, Virgil was an everyday person who became a legend, leaving precious memories to family and friends.

Virgil is survived by his wife of 70 years, Cleda Ward.