Beverage Company Founder Clare Rose Dies

Clare F. Rose, founder of beer distributer Clare Rose Inc., died on Saturday. He was 98 years old.

Rose, who started his beverage company in 1936, was also a major benefactor for Patchogue-area organizations. For example, St. Joseph's College opened the Clare Rose Playhouse in 1985 after Rose financially backed the theater's creation.

The company has also given financial help to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital and the Patchogue YMCA, which has yet to open.

Funeral services will be held at Ruland Funeral Home at 500 North Ocean Ave. in Patchogue. Viewings are scheduled for Monday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Tuesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital or Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.