John T. Lare

ELLENDALE, DEL - John Thomas Lare passed away at the age of 72 on Thursday, August 6, 2026, after a battle with Parkinson's Dementia.

John was born in Milford, De on February 11, 1954 to Harry Lare and Catherine Fleming Lare. He grew up in Ellendale, Delaware. He graduated from Milford Senior High School in 1972. John was active in DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), winning first place in the state for his Timex shadow box display.

After high school John went to work with his father, Harry, at James Julian Construction Company. There he made lifetime friends.

Deciding to explore, he moved out to Portland, OR. He loved living in the Pacific Northwest and all it had to offer. He loved the beautiful outdoors in Portland: the mountains, coast, rivers, forests and gardens. His passion was growing orchids in his greenhouse. He frequently visited Mount Hood, Multnomah Falls, and Washington State. While in Portland he worked at Georgia Pacific paper mill for many years.

In time John missed his roots and friends in Ellendale and moved back. He reconnected with his hometown church, Ellendale United Methodist, and was part of their new ministry, offering a food pantry. He loved serving the guests that came to the food pantry and never knew a stranger or let anyone go without food or a hug. In time he took on the responsibilities of running the food pantry. He got immense satisfaction serving in that position.

John is survived by his brother, Harry H. Lare, Jr. and sister, Susan Ament, and many nieces, grandnieces and good friends. He is preceded in death by his parents.

There will be no memorial service and interment will be private.