Russell Jerry Ware, Jr.

Russ went home to be with his lord and savior, passing peacefully in his sleep on his 58th birthday 9/17/23. Born to RJ Ware and Vicki Felch on 9/17/65 in Bellingham WA. Russell, "Jerry" lead an interesting and complex life. He was a man of many talents and interests. He attended schools all over Whatcom County. Russ was a natural athlete and excelled at sports, giving his early years to football, basketball and speedskating. He also became involved in martial arts and enjoyed participating in tournaments and sparring with friends. Russ was strong in his faith, growing up in church, and sporadically participated in youth ministry.

Russ enjoyed racing, and though he had a variety of nice cars in his younger life, he was MOST fond of motorcycles! He loved to ride, build custom bikes and street race! He also devoted many years to racing RC's, hydroplanes on Lake Whatcom and trucks at Hannegan Speedway, resulting in a nice collection of trophies that he proudly displayed. 

Russ was a substantial pool player and fun to watch, as he would sink incredible shots and skillfully clear the table. From an early age, Russ was mechanically inclined and had a knack for wiring electronics. He would often disassemble things to see how they fit together, then build them back better, adding more components. He could fix anything! Russ appreciated fine speakers and loved collecting them, he could never have enough. He found great satisfaction in building elaborate sound systems for homes and autos! 

Russ's mannerly ways and natural abilities landed him many good jobs, but structure and responsibilities interfered with his carefree, fun-loving ways, after sustaining a head   injury that resulted in a permanent disability. 

A series of head injuries and poor choices contributed to many adversities he faced and sadly, he lost many things he held dear, until becoming stabilized through services provided by Lake Whatcom Center.

The last years of his life were peaceful, stable and happy, filled with much love and many good times with family and he enjoyed attending Band of Brothers! Russ loved people and was a quiet, humble man of integrity. He tolerated things without complaining. He was polite, always kind, and was extraordinarily sentimental and protective of those he loved! He will be deeply missed by those that knew him best!

Russ is preceded in death by many and survived by numerous family members, too many to list.

Please comfort grieving hearts by sharing your thoughts and memories of Russ online.

He will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery, Ferndale WA.

All are invited to an informal gathering for Russ on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at the Mill Wheel Community Clubhouse, 4000 Flynn St., Bellingham WA, 98229. 1:30-4:00pm

Donations in Russ's honor may be made to any of the following: Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Church on the Street, or Band of Brothers.