Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
WARD, Donovan Frederick
WARD, Donovan Frederick. (Dubuque, IA, Nov. 30, 1904-1998). Physician. Ward became the first resident of Dubuque and the second Iowan to head the American Medical Association. He succeeded Dr. Norman A. Welch who died unexpectedly in September 1964. Ward had been elected president-elect of the association at its June meeting and announced his campaign to restore the prestige of the "family doctor."
In 1931 Ward began his medical career in Dubuque and was a staff member of FINLEY HOSPITAL where he was head of the surgical division. He earned senior surgeon status at Mercy Hospital and XAVIER HOSPITAL. Locally he served as president of the Lions' Club and Shrine Club, organized the Navy League council, and served on the boards of the YOUNG MEN’S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION (Y.M.C.A.) and the Salvation Army.