Earl "Butch" Ware

Earl “Butch” Ware died peacefully in his home on Friday, August 2, 2024, at the age of 77. He was born August 31, 1946, in Barberton, Ohio, a son of the late Gordon L. Ware and Geneva Johnson. Butch attended Trinity High School in Washington, Pennsylvania. After high school, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1964 to 1968. He was a Vietnam Veteran from 1966 to 1967. After leaving the military, he was employed as a bricklayer for Local #11 for over 30 years. Best known for his favorite role, Santa. Butch played Santa Claus around the community for countless number of years for various organizations and brought smiles to both children and adults. He also was an avid Harley Davidson enthusiast. He enjoyed belonging to various clubs in the local area including the American Legion Post 175 and Arms Club. Butch leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter that no one could match. He brought joy no matter where he went. Surviving are his former wife, Corlea “Corky” Ware of 33 years, with whom he had remained good friends; three children, Shane Ware (Robin), Troy Ware (Missy) and Jill Carlisle (Keith); 11 grandchildren, Travis Ware (Cassie), Maddie Kemp (Thomas), Kaleb Ware (Jenna), Garrett Ware (Rachel), Delaney Carlisle, Logan Carlisle, Josie Ware, Wyatt Ware, Waylon Ware, Ryker Carlisle and Teige Carlisle; and eight great-grandchildren, Adam and Jason Ware, Reagan and Knox Ware, Boone and Banner Kemp, Ryver Ware, and Bronson Carlisle. In addition to his parents, he is proceeded in death a brother, Gordon Ware, and a sister, Patricia Holmes. Arrangements are private and entrusted to William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd.