James Lawrence Hare

     James Lawrence Hare was born February 3, 1948, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Melvin and Caroline Hare.  He enjoyed a life with 4 sisters, Donna, Marge, Kathy, and Bonnie,  and one brother Pat.
     In his younger years, Jim took up tap dancing, performing in parades with Donna and Pat.  He attended Aberdeen Central Highschool and competed as a pole vaulter and also played the saxophone in his highschool marching band.  Upon graduation, Jim entered the United States Marine Corps.  He served his country for 4 years beginning in 1966 and was honorably discharged in 1970.  He served in Vietnam and was stationed in Korea as an embassy guard.  Jim earned his expert marksmanship as a sharpshooter and also earned his black belt in Taekwondo while overseas.
     After being discharged he moved to Denver, Colorado where he met the love of his life, Linda Gabbert.  They were married November 13, 1971, and just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.  They were blessed with 4 children, Dennis, Pamela, Amber, and Kimberly, along came bonus in-laws adding Jeffrey, Troy and Epi.  Jim and Linda have 8 beautiful grandchildren- Alexandra, Samantha, Nicholas, Cassandra, Peyton, Stellar, Novae, and Quillan.  Currently the family is spread throughout the country from Maine, Arizona, Colorado, California, and St.Thomas.  
     Jim was employed by West Metro Fire Department where he worked his way through the ranks to Assistant Chief, retiring after 25 years.  Involved in Fellowship of Christian Firefighters, Jim was an inspiration to many and well respected in the Department. Jim also worked alongside his Father-in-law, Walt, laying concrete for G&C Construction for many years.  Upon retiring Jim worked at the airport de-icing planes and took his wife on many fun adventures. Always the hard worker, Jim settled in real estate, selling and inspecting homes until the end.
     Jim enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with family, taking many trips in  the Colorado mountains with the camper Walt built. Glenwood Springs was a family favorite each summer with the Gabbert crew, as well as Steamboat Springs with the Hare crew.  As the kids grew into teenagers, Jim upgraded to the epic ROADLINER motorhome, making many fun memories while traveling to California and South Dakota.  
     Jim's loving dedication to his wife, children and grandchildren was rooted and supported by his journey of faith.  His deep passion for serving God led to many roles in his church while steadfastly supporting his wife in growing the Lifelight  Ministry.  Near the end of his life, Jim quietly, yet profoundly ministered and served family, friends and neighbors, touching many lives by his willingness to listen and lend a hand to anyone in need.
    Jim, you were taken too soon and are greatly loved and missed by everyone here today.  The impact you had on people will last for generations to come.  We all know and believe you are in the loving arms of Jesus and that brings us all comfort.  Until we see you again...

 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Bouldercrest.org (Wounded Warriors)