Ward Kimball

Originally Posted By CP173

Through the CPHS, I have been fortunate enough to get to know Ward over the last few years. I have two favorite memories of him:

At Ollie Johnston's steam-up, I showed Ward a pristine copy of his "Art Afterpieces" book that he published nearly 40 years prior. Ward was touched that someone remembered it, and he proudly showed it off to Ollie and Frank Thomas.

Later that day, I gave Ward one of the name plates that had been prepared for the "original" Ward Kimball engine that was to be put into service at Walt Disney World. Luckily, George Britton, the roundhouse foreman at WDW, saved the sign when that engine was traded to an Ohio amusement park. Ward instantly remembered it, and was amazed that I had brought it 3,000 miles to give to him. As he waited for his ride, he stood on the corner of a very busy LA street and waved the 3' sign over his head as if to hitch a ride. He then shouted "Will animate for food!"

I wish I had known him better. However, I sense that if you want to know the real Ward, look to his brilliant animation work. Listen to the Fire House Five. Ride on a Disneyland train.

And for Ward's sake, don't be sad!

His legacy is in laughter, not tears.

 

Originally Posted By schnebs

I wish I could find something really eloquent to say about Ward Kimball right now, but I think that in the end all the laughs and the smiles that Ward brought to people over the years and will continue to bring for years to come when they see his work and hear the stories about him are a greater tribute than anything that I could ever say.

I'd like to think that even as we speak, he and Walt are already in the cab of the most beautiful steam train you've ever seen, ready to take her out for a run. Rest in peace, Ward.

 

Originally Posted By Zazu

True story:

"Hi, I'm Lisa. Welcome to the Walt Disney World Casting Center. I'm going to ask you a few questions to see how well you'll fit in here. Let's start with: Who is your favorite Disney character?"

"Ward Kimball," I replied.

"No, I mean your favorite Disney *animated* character."

"Ward Kimball!" I insisted.

"I don't think you understand, I mean one that appeared in an animated film."

"Still Ward Kimball. He appeared in 'The Nifty Ninties' with Fred Moore in 1941. They were vaudevillians who billed themselves as 'Two Young Men from Illinois' and beat each other up while telling bad jokes in Mickey's theater. Perhaps you've seen it?"

"Uh... no," she said. "But I think you'll fit in here just fine!"


God bless you Ward, and all who loved you, and all that you loved.

 

Originally Posted By exretlaw

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Ward at his home many years ago. What a kind and cordial man. We sat and talked for several hours and he gave me the "nickel" tour of his train collection. I asked him what his neighbors thought about having a full-sized steam locomotive running in their neighborhood and he quickly replied with a twinkle in his eye, "Screw them...I was here first!" He was one-of-a-kind and we will never see the likes of him again!