Douglas Ard, 70, of Lake Wales passed away Monday, Dec. 24, 2012 peacefully at his home due to cancer.

Douglas was born Dec. 26, 1941 in Ozark, Ala. to the late Thomas A. and Agnes E. (Johnston) Ard and has been a lifelong resident of the area. He was a retired Welder in agriculture. Douglas was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoyed spending time with his kids, grandkids and family. He served in the US Army and was of the Baptist faith. He was known as “Grandpa” to many.

Survivors include his wife, Rose M. Ard of 51 years; daughter, Anita (Ron) Thomas of Lake Wales; son, Steve (Julie) Ard of Lake Wales; sisters, Joan Underwood of Lake Wales, Lisa Brackett of Newton, Ala.; 5 grandchildren, Jason, Chris (Jacki), Darrell (Mellissa), Trevor (Tiffany) and Tracey (Ritchie) ; 3 great grandchildren, Makenzie, Carson, Tristen and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 at the Marion Nelson Funeral Home with Rev. Stephen Bolden officiating. Family will receive friends Friday evening from 5 p.m. until service time.

Marion Nelson Funeral Home of Lake Wales is in charge of local arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.