Charles Ward, Int’l Marketer, Dies at 80
Charles Ward (1940-2021) with the America’s Cup (“Auld Mug”) at the White House in February 1987 when President Ronald Reagan greeted the victorious Stars & Stripes ‘87 skipper Dennis Conner and the crew that won the Cup back from Australia.
CHARLES L. WARD Jr.
December 27, 1940 - June 15, 2021
Charles and I met in 1984 at the Sail America Foundation in San Diego, where we helped create the yachting cultural movement and fundraising phenomenon that became Stars & Stripes ’87, America’s successful challenge to win back the 136-year-old America’s Cup from Australia. Our first publication, America Can Win with America’s Best, captured the pulse of the nation. That lightning in a bottle illuminated the way forward. Our videos developed a new language for cause-related marketing. Charles led the development of a creative team to help other clients reach inspiring goals. We shared a passion for epic challenges, creative solutions and important stories that set the highest standard of excellence in service to clients I have ever known to exist anywhere.
Charles Ward was the original influencer. His vision inspired us, his enthusiasm and professionalism opened doors, and his leadership transformed dreams into reality. He made friendships, businesses, and cultures better.