Pat Vernon "Pookie/Papaw" Ware

Pat Vernon "Pookie/Papaw" Ware passed away on July 27, 2011 after a courageous fight with COPD. He was born in Hamilton on February 7, 1945 the son of William and Wilma (Wilson) Ware. Pat graduated from Taft High School and was married to Ginger Rogers, who was the love of his life and his angel on earth. He worked for the Hamilton Journal News and Cincinnati Enquirer shortly after graduation until he began his career at Fisher Body. After Fisher Body closed, Pat spent the remaining years of his career at Lowe’s until poor health forced him to retire.

Besides his wife, Pat leaves a daughter, Angela (Mark) Robinson and her family to cherish his memory. Further, he leaves two children by marriage, Matt (Kelly) and Melissa Rucker. Also, by marriage, he leaves several grandchildren: Kirsti Silveira, Kelsi, Morgan, Kaylee, Arianna, Savannah, and Alyssa Rucker; and great-grandchildren Aubri and Taylynn. Pat also leaves his loving parents William and Wilma Ware; sister Sharon (Eugene) Foister; sister-in-law Ruby Lickert; and brothers-in-law Walt (June), Roy, and Jim Rogers plus numerous nieces and nephews.

Pat was a Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite. He also enjoyed membership in the Shriner’s Organization and was a Kentucky Colonel. Throughout his life, Pat enjoyed playing cards, fishing trips with friends and annual trips to Vegas with family and friends. He also took great pride in his home and enjoyed remodeling it throughout the years. His warm smile and teasing personality caused people to be drawn to him for friendship. Pat never saw a stranger and freely used terms of endearment when speaking to only casual observers. Because Pat had so many friends and family members, he could not always retrieve the correct name so he frequently referred to many as just "Liz."

Pat’s family would like to thank Dr. Sternberg for his excellent care. Further, they would like to thank his hospice nurse, Pepper, for all of the support, care and love she showed to Pat and his family over the past two years. Also, the family would like to thank Tracy, the hospice chaplain, and Sarah, the hospice social worker for their loving care as well.

Visitation will be held at the Brown-Dawson Funeral Home, 1350 Millville Avenue, on Friday, July 29, 2011 from 12:00 noon to the time of service at 2:00 PM. Entombment to follow in Rose Hill Burial Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hospice of Southwest Ohio, 7625 Camargo Road, Suite #200, Cincinnati, OH 45232-3107.