Gerald M. Ware

1923 - 2011

Gerald M. Ware

Des Moines

Gerald Melvin Ware, 88, died Monday, September 26, 2011. Services will be held at Hamilton's on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway with visitation on Friday, September 30, 2011 from 5 to 7 p.m. and the funeral on Saturday, October 1 at 10 a.m. Burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery.

Gerald was born on April 1, 1923 on a farm near Runnells, IA to Hazel (Keeling) and Oliver Ware. In 1942 he entered the service and was a Marine fighter pilot in the South Pacific, flying an F4U Corsair. In 1950 he was recalled to service, flying 100 missions in Korea. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and 11 Air Medals.

In late 1955 Gerald went to work for the Ruan Corporation. As their Chief Pilot for 38 years, he had the privilege of flying the first Learjet based in Iowa and met many interesting people including an ex-president, senators and pro golfers. One of his most touching experiences that he was proud to be a part of, was flying doctors around the country to pick up hearts for transplants.

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years and Quiet Birdmen, a national pilots' organization. He always said, "I've had a good life."

Gerald was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Willi. He is survived by his daughters, Martha (Mike) Ohrt and Janis (Doug Leonard) Ware; grandchildren, Jason (Janet) Ohrt, Timothy (Janet) Cole and Kaitlin Cole; great-grandchildren, Logan Ohrt and Marcus Moore; daughter, Sharon McLaughlin and her children, Holly, John and Martha; granddaughter, Jamie (Josh) Ickowitz and daughter, Brooklyn; sister, Margaret Prall.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Valley View Village Care Center. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.