NORWICH – Dr. Parker J. Ward, Jr. will retire July 1 after 45 years of practicing medicine.

The well-known Norwich physician grew up here and early in his career, as a general surgeon, returned home to raise a family and work at his practice on East Main Street and at Chenango Memorial Hospital.

He graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed his residency at Bellevue Hospital and New York University Hospital, both in New York City. His wife, Mary, said his love and pride for Norwich motivated him to return rather than accept a cardiovascular fellowship offered to him in New York City.