Terry LaBare

Terry John LaBare, of Viola, passed away peacefully at home on October 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 5, 1946, to Wesley and Helen (Brakke) LaBare, Terry graduated from Dover-Eyota High School in 1964. He married the love of his life, Donna Daniels, on July 30, 1966.

Terry was drafted into the Army and proudly served in the 90th Aviation Unit during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Eilesheim, Germany, where he worked on helicopters as a crew chief on the CH-37 Mojave.

A true jack of all trades, Terry held many roles throughout his life. He worked for Higgins Home Builders-where he earned the nickname "Candy Bar"-and later at KBS. He also owned and operated Terry's Shoe Box, where he became well known for fixing shoes and sharing stories with folks throughout the area. He finished his working career as a state employee at RCTC.

Terry loved the simple joys in life: fishing, stock car races, playing cards and dice, and taking road trips with family and friends. He dedicated years to caring for the Viola cemetery and church grounds, mowing them with pride. Mischievous and good-humored, Terry was always ready with a joke or a playful prank, bringing a smile wherever he went.

Terry is survived by his wife, Donna and his six children: Teresa Krukow, Brian (Emily) LaBare, Eric (Julie) LaBare, Heather (Chris) Ellinghuysen, Bridget (Kevin) Kullot, and Brittany (Bruce) Tesmer; grandchildren Justin LaBare, Amanda LaBare, Abigail LaBare, Brandon Krukow, Elizabeth LaBare, Madelynn O'Connor, Grady LaBare, Mari O'Connor, Hattie LaBare, Braxton Tesmer, Brooklyn Tesmer, Kynlee Kullot, Jagger LaBare, and Oakleigh Kullot; and great-grandchildren Charlie LaBare, Owen LaBare, Wesley Ritten, Clara Ritten, Bobby Roebuck, and baby Thomas Roebuck, arriving in February.

He is also survived by his siblings Cheryl (Richard) Graham, Doug (Vicki) LaBare, Steve (Sandi) LaBare, and Craig (Veronica) LaBare; as well as many nieces and nephews who adored him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Helen LaBare; his mother- and father-in-law, Merrill and Elizabeth Daniels; his baby brother, Jeffery; and his beloved dogs.

Terry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Viola Bible Church (10606 Main St NE, Viola, MN 55934). A visitation will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Schad and Zabel Funeral Home (115 South St., Eyota, MN 55934) as well as one hour prior to the service at the church.