A man of honor, integrity, and courage, A.D. Ware was an extraordinary man to know and love. He was an advocate for others and passionate about the people and things he believed in with a spirit of generosity that was truly unmatched. A.D. was never one to worry about the little things, rather, he took everything in stride while making the most of the moments he was given. A more devoted family man would be hard to find, and he was always there whenever his loved ones needed him. Deeply loved, A.D. will be forever missed.


In 1932 A.D. was welcomed in to the world by his parents on February 7 in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He grew up with his brothers, Frank and Gene. The three boys spent a lot of time on the farm where they were taught to fish, hunt and just about everything else.


As a young man, A.D. served in the United States Army as part of the 82nd Airborne Division during the Korean War. While in the service he was a paratrooper and made 32 jumps. A.D. also served in the medical corps. Later he became Secretary of Treasurer and ran the local American Legion post.


A.D. was well respected in his career and known for his strong work ethic and wise decisions. He spent 27 years working at Shakespeare Company and was also president of the Steelworker’s Union. A.D. was very much loved and respected by both coworkers and staff alike. A.D. had a way of knowing what was right for everyone involved. A true leader, he also had a way of connecting the workers and the staff in a harmonious way. He cared for and protected the workers in so many ways. After leaving Shakespeare, he worked for Burroughs Corporation where he also became president of the Union until his retirement. After his retirement, he kept busy by making deliveries for Burchett Quality Tool.


It was while at work A.D. met the woman who would change the course of his life forever. Her name was Joyce Krier, and she was truly the love of his life. A.D. and Joyce were married on August 2 1988, in Las Vegas, Nevada. They were happily married for almost 30 years.


In addition to his wife, A.D. adored his children, Lora, Chad, Malcolm, and Mark. Later in life things only got better when grandchildren; Kristi, Kalie, Travis, Chaz and many more came along. He always called them his grand babies and loved spending time with them. A.D. was a loving, nurturing, and attentive father and grandfather who was always there for them. His listening ear was always ready when someone just wanted to talk and he always had the best advice when it was needed.


Throughout his life, A.D. was always one to keep busy. He was an avid bowler and was also president of Then National Bowling Associate. He was a sports enthusiast who played baseball and pool. He also enjoyed playing cards. A.D. was a deeply devoted Tigers baseball fan and made it to as many games as he could. He also loved fishing and being on the water. Something else he was known for was his famous spareribs. No one could make them quite like him and they were always the star of family gatherings.


He was a very religious man and was baptized on February 22, 2009. With unending kindness to all, A.D. was such a blessing to everyone within his reach. He was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his own back to someone in need. The love A.D. had for his family was easy to see. Life will never be the same without him here, but he leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever treasure.


A.D. Ware of Mattawan died on February 23, 2017 peacefully in his sleep at home with his family. A.D. is preceded in death by his parents and brothers; Frank and Gene. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Ware, his children; Lora (Darrell), Chad, Malcolm (Kim) and Mark (Johnette). His grandchildren; Kristi, Kalie, Travis, Chaz and several others. Cremation has taken place. Please visit A.D.’s life story at the Video Tribute and sign his online guest book.

Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of AD Ware, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.