Keith Nelson Ware, 92, of Orangeville died on Saturday, May 11, 2019, from causes incident to age. He was born November 6, 1926 in Mutual, Utah to Samuel Guy and Orlinda Nelson Ware. Keith was raised in Orangeville and, after 4 years in the Navy and then 4 years in college, spent the rest of his life there. He married Diane Thomas from Lawrence on March 24, 1947 in Manti. Diane died on May 3, 2016. They had been married for 69 years.
Keith graduated from Central High School in Castle Dale. He served in the Navy during WWII, enlisting at the age of 17. He was stationed on the island of Okinawa near Japan during the war. Keith then went to Utah State University on the GI Bill, graduating with a degree in engineering in 1951. He was among the first organizers of telephone service in Emery County and served as general manager of The Emery County Farmers Union Telephone Association for 39 years until his retirement in 1991.
Keith and Diane traveled the country for both business and pleasure. One of their favorite destinations was Hawaii. After retirement they spent countless hours exploring and enjoying the local mountains and deserts. For many years their home-away-from-home was the Little America hotel in Salt Lake City.
Keith was a hard worker, honest, and friendly to everyone he met. He enjoyed spending time with family, working in his yard, reading newspapers, and watching sports – especially the Utah Jazz. His deep love for his family was a dominant feature of his life. He was a member of the LDS Church and served in various capacities, including the Bishopric.
Keith is survived by his children Stuart (Brenda) of Salt Lake City, Dennis (Tami) of Orangeville, and Jennifer (Jeffrey) Johnson of Orem, 12 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; children Douglas, Leslie and Thomas; and brothers Samuel, Bruce, LaVar, and Rue. He was the last surviving Ware of that generation.
Keith was buried in the Orangeville cemetery beside his wife, Diane; and near his three children, his parents and grandparents.
Job well done, Dad! Now, rest in peace.