Mildred Ware, a beloved and respected figure in the Salvation Army, died Wednesday, December 16, at Calvin Manor in Des Moines. She was 96.

Mildred was the founder of many Salvation Army programs in Des Moines as officer-in-charge and coordinator of the Corps and Community Center at 1213 E. 30th Street. She opened day nurseries in 1938 in response to women entering the workforce in WWII and implemented after- school programs, including sports, drama, crafts, woodworking, and music. She was also credited with creating the first senior citizens’ club in Des Moines called the 50-plus Club.

As the extensive programs outgrew the original building, Ware spearheaded the purchase of land for the new Corps and Community Center at 1216 East 25th Street, now the Citadel Worship Center and Citadel Corps gymnasium. Ware continued to lead the Citadel Corps until 1953.

Later she worked for the State of Iowa Health and Human Services Dept. where she assisted the mentally disabled with their social and legal needs.

Over the years, Ware continued to serve The Salvation Army as bandmaster, songster leader, organist, and pianist. She was also a Sunday school teacher and League of Mercy volunteer as well as a Corps Council member.

In more recent years, she was awarded the “Salvationist of the Year” honor as well as the prestigious “Others” award for a life of service and dedication. In addition, she was presented with a key to the City of Des Moines by the mayor. The last years of her life were spent at Calvin Community where she received warm attention and fine nursing care.

Mildred is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Simon of West Des Moines and her sisters, Joyce Lutz and Dolores Ruppe, both of Des Moines. She was preceded in death by her husband, Irvin Ware.

A Committal Service will be held at the Merle Hay Funeral Home Chapel on Monday, December 21, at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Des Moines Salvation Army Citadel Corps.

Merle Hay Funeral Home