In Memoriam: Josef Alexander Ward, Talented Musician Killed in Tragic Crash

CRESWELL, OR — The Oregon music community mourns the loss of Josef Alexander Ward, a gifted bassist and audio engineer, who tragically lost his life in a fatal crash on Monday, April 7, 2025. The accident occurred at 3:28 p.m. on Highway 99 S near Goshen in Lane County, as reported by the Oregon State Police.

According to the preliminary investigation, a southbound Kenworth log truck, operated by Christian James Gossett, 52, of Cottage Grove, had slowed to make a left turn when it was rear-ended by a southbound Toyota Matrix driven by Ward, 30, of Creswell. Ward was transported to an area hospital, where he was later declared deceased. Gossett, the operator of the log truck, was reportedly uninjured. The highway was closed for approximately 2.5 hours during the on-scene investigation, with assistance provided by the Lane County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

Josef Ward was a cherished figure in the Pacific Northwest’s music scene. Throughout his career, he performed with esteemed ensembles such as the Eugene Symphony, Oregon Mozart Players, Eugene Opera, Corvallis-OSU Symphony, Rogue Valley Symphony, and Orchestra Next. His passion for the double bass led him to participate in masterclasses with renowned musicians, including Edgar Meyer, Jon McCullough-Benner, DaXun Zhang, Colin Corner, and Braizahn Jones.

Ward’s academic achievements were equally impressive. He held a Master’s Degree in Double Bass Performance and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Oregon, where he studied under Tyler Abbott. Additionally, he honed his skills in audio production with Lance Miller at the same institution. As an educator, Ward served as an Adjunct Instructor of String Bass, Electric Bass, and Music Production at Chemeketa Community College, inspiring countless students with his expertise and enthusiasm.

In his professional life, Ward was the Acting Principal Bassist for the Oregon Mozart Players and an Acting Section Bassist for the Eugene Symphony during the 2024-2025 season. His recorded performances included notable works with Orchestra Next, such as Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker (2022), Paul Safar’s Refugium-Snapshots of Denali (2024), and Concerto for Electric Guitar (2024). He performed on a Pacific Violone Model Bass crafted by Seth Kimmel of Eugene, Oregon, an instrument that became an extension of his musical voice.

Beyond his musical talents, Ward was a man of many interests. He lived in Creswell with his wife, Heather, and their two beloved cats, Sterling and Eevee. In his free time, he enjoyed photography, audio production, and working on cars—hobbies that reflected his creative and hands-on spirit. His presence enriched the Creswell community, where he often played music and shared his passions with those around him.

Josef Alexander Ward’s untimely passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals touched by his artistry. His legacy as a musician, educator, and community member will endure through the memories and music he left behind.

Information from OSP and Josef's website

Michael Weber, known for his extensive coverage of crime news in Lane County, continues to provide valuable updates to the local community. He runs the largest crime watch group in Lane County, Lane County Mugshots Uncensored, which currently has over 86,400 members. 

You can also follow me on X: https://x.com/MugshotMike541