Monroe, NH Leslie James Ward, 96, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2015, at Littleton Regional Healthcare in Littleton, NH. Les was born on July 30, 1918, in Monroe, the son of Robert and Hazel (Smith) Ward. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1939 with a degree in Animal and Poultry Husbandry. Les enlisted and became a pilot with the US Navy. He flew 75 to 100 missions in the Pacific during World War II while serving on the USS Saratoga, Intrepid, Enterprise, and Bunker Hill. Les was discharged from the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant in 1945, but re-enlisted for a brief period in 1947 as a Lt. Commander. He was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses and six Air Medals. Les married Doris Hall on June 3, 1945. He returned to his roots in Monroe and started Ward Poultry. Over the following 25 years he built the farm into a successful egg producer with its own processing plant. Les retired in 1972 and his son, Terry Ward, and his son-in-law, Gerry Laflamme, took over the business. He also drove part time for North Country Egg Farm in the early 1970 s. Les was a member of the North Monroe Methodist Church and the American Legion Post 200 in Concord, NH. Les and Doris spent many winters in Eustis, FL. Family was a very important part of his life and he will be fondly remembered as being a very humble man. He was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Doris (Hall) Ward on August 31, 1989. Survivors include a son, Terry Ward and wife Eileen of Monroe; a daughter, Carol Laflamme and husband Gerry of Monroe; two grandsons, Nathan Laflamme and wife Kelly and Jesse Laflamme and wife Sandra both of Monroe; four great grandchildren, Alexander, Elizabeth, Piper, and Brock; a brother Norman Ward and wife Eve, also of Monroe; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. There will be no calling hours. A graveside service is being planned for a later time in the North Monroe Cemetery. A notice will be published at that time announcing the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Monroe Community Church in North Monroe, PO Box 179, Monroe, NH 03771.