BENTON – Gerald H. Ware “Bubs”, 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday July 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in Waterville on July 20, 1936. He graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1955. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the US Airforce and spent three years serving his country. Following active duty, he worked for Dunham’s of Maine, and this is where he met his loving wife Janice of 59 years and mother of his three children. He went on to work for Maine Central Railroad as a conductor for 38 years until he retired.

In his spare time, he loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends camping in Rockwood and Kokadjo, fishing, and snowmobiling. He was an avid sports enthusiast, having played football while in high school. He never missed going to a Winslow Black Raiders football game or watching the Patriots, Red Sox or Bruins on television. He also loved to dance and would often be the “life of the party” at family gatherings and other celebrations.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Carol Ware, his former daughter-in-law and close friend, as she took excellent care of him over the past several years, allowing him to remain in his home.

Bubs was predeceased by his wife of 59 years Janice Abbott Ware; his daughter Lori Ware; and granddaughter Kara Michaud.

Bubs is survived by his children, Robin Couture and fiancé Blaine Ellis of Winslow, David Ware and fiancé Kristin Littlefield of Winslow; his grandchildren, Christopher Couture and wife Nicole of Turner, Nicholas Couture and wife Lacy of Vassalboro, Trisha Ware and husband Steve Gould of Winslow, Nathan Feix of Benton; his great grandchildren, Leah, Serenity, and Anika Couture, Owen and Kamdyn Couture, Kaydence Ware, Alexis Harding, and McKenzie George.

Visiting hours will be on Friday, July 19, 2024, from 6 – 8 p.m. on at Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville with a graveside service on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street Waterville, Maine.