Marty L. Aylward

MARTY L. AYLWARD, 48 of Dickens, passed away Saturday, October 8, 2016 at the University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora, CO.

Marty was born April 9, 1968 in Sutherland, Nebraska to Pat and Shirley (McConnell) Aylward. He graduated from Wallace High School with the class of 1986 and went on to attend Hastings College.

While in Hastings, Marty worked for a custom cabinet maker for several years. He was a quick study, and his woodworking skills developed into a medium for his creativity. In the late 1990's, Marty came back home to the farm to work alongside his dad and brother. In 2014, Marty was diagnosed with leukemia, and continued to work on the farm throughout his treatments until his death.

When people think of Marty, they immediately remember his sense of humor and quick wit. Sometimes, Marty would say things with such a subtle humor that it would go unnoticed for a few moments before inducing a chuckle or a smile. At times he was sarcastic, but always in fun. Marty was a goof, easy to love, and had a giving heart.

Marty had many talents, with music and woodworking being chief among them. Even when he was farming, Marty continued making cabinetry and fabricating fine pieces of furniture that became treasured gifts to family and friends. He was also a gifted musician who could both play piano and sing. As a boy he sang and performed with his mother, Shirley, who accompanied him on the piano, making it extra special. Marty also enjoyed playing softball and supporting youth sports in the community. Most importantly, Marty was a loving and patient father who continuously taught his daughter through positive feedback and endless support.

Marty was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley in August of 2015; grandfather Lynn Aylward, grandmother Ellen Aylward, aunt Jean Werkmeister, grandfather, Freeman McConnell; aunt Neva Aylward, and uncle, Clark McConnell.

Survivors include his daughter, Paige Aylward of Laramie, WY; father, Pat Aylward of Dickens; siblings, Mike (Lori) Aylward of Dickens, MariJo (Jim) Rugh of Windsor, CO; niece and nephews, Beth Aylward, Austin, Ben & Casey Rugh; grandmother, Virginia McConnell of Wallace; uncles, Leo Werkmeister of Maywood, Duane Aylward of North Platte, Vince McConnell (Kim) of Colorado Springs, CO and Gary (Helen) McConnell of Wallace; aunt Mary McConnell of Hurst, TX, along with many cousins, other relatives and friends.

A memorial has been established in Marty's memory for later designation. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live for those unable to attend.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 14, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. (CT) at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Wallace with Fr. Thomas Bush as Celebrant. Burial will be in the MorningView Cemetery at Wallace.

Visitation will be on Thursday, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. (MT) at the Bullock-Long Funeral Home in Grant.

Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements.