Gov. Branstad Orders Flags Flown at Half-Staff for Sen. Pat Ward Friday

Gov. Terry Branstad is ordering all flags in the state to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday to honor  State Sen. Pat Ward, who passed away after a years-long battle with breast cancer Monday. 

The governor’s directive applies to all U.S. and state flags under the control of the state. 

According to a message from the governor's office, "Flags will be at half-staff on the state Capitol building and on flag displays in the Capitol complex, and upon all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect."

Visitation and Funeral Services for Sen. Pat Ward

Visitation for Sen. Ward will be held today - Thursday - at Dunn's Funeral Home at 2121 Grand Ave. in Des Moines, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, 4126 Ingersoll Ave. in Des Moines.