Everal Russell Ware, age 97, of Manistee, died Thursday evening, Nov. 14, 2013, at the Manistee County Medical Care Facility. He was born on Sept. 23, 1916, in Onekama, and was the son of the late Everal and Jennie (Bond) Ware. Russ was married to Ingeborg Nelson on Oct. 21, 1942; she died on Dec. 23, 1999. He later married Gertrude B. (Radke) Gerlach on Dec. 11, 1970, in Paw Paw, Mich. She preceded him in death on Jan. 24, 1989. Most of his life Russ was employed at the Packaging Corporation of America in Filer City, Mich., until his retirement. As a young man he enjoyed traveling and was an avid fisherman. In his later years he loved spending time in the kitchen and cooking, as well as taking an “occasional trip” to the Little River Casino. He is survived by his son and two daughters-in-law, Barney and Bobbie Ware of Interlochen, and Sandra J. Ware of Manistee; eight grandchildren, Kimberly (Dale) Kolanowski, Kristen (Brenton) Mezeske, Kevin (Janelle) Ware, Linc Ware, Shane Ware, Kelli (Tony) Bowling, Tracy (Shane) Wood and Holly (Shawn) Azure; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive him. He was also preceded in death by two sons, Norman and Donald Ware; his sister, Dorothy Olson; and his brother, Laverne Ware. According to Russell’s wishes, cremation has taken place and graveside services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Manistee on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 1 p.m. with Rev. Philip Nordstrand officiating. The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.

Source: Traverse City Record-Eagle (MI) – Tuesday, November 19, 2013