Kevin Joard Bara

We are devastated by the sudden and unexpected passing of Kevin Joard Bara, proudly known by many as "The Good Kev," at the age of 59. Kevin and his wife, Erica, were married on May 10, 2024, in Plano, Texas. Though their time together was far too short, every day of their 18 months of marriage was filled with genuine and unconditional love, laughter, and partnership. Kevin passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, leaving an irreplaceable void in the life of his wife and best friend and all who know and adored him.
Born on November 3, 1966, at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, Kevin lived a life grounded in loyalty, strength, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. A proud Marine, he served his country with honor, carrying the creed "Once a Marine, Always a Marine" in everything he did. Though deeply Texan, he always kept a part of Chicago in his heart cherishing memories of childhood, family, and years that shaped his spirit.
Kevin was magnetic. He never met a stranger, never hesitated to help, and never held back a story especially the ones he insisted were worth hearing again (and again). His humor, his mischief, and his ability to connect instantly with anyone were part of the charm that made him unforgettable. He loved deeply, felt fiercely, and moved through life with the conviction that people should be measured by the fullness of their heart, not the imperfections of their history.
For more than twenty-five years, Kevin was a steady and respected presence at Mercedes-Benz of Grapevine (Avondale Dealerships). He was loyal by nature, the kind of person who showed up and gave his best every single day. His clients adored him, many following him for decades, sending notes, gifts, and heartfelt thanks that meant far more to him than any corporate recognition ever could. Kevin never worked for applause - he took pride in doing things the right way. His honesty, work ethic, and the way he treated people set him apart, and those who knew him professionally never forgot it.
Whether enjoying a good whiskey, retelling a story with that signature twinkle in his eye, or offering comfort or help to someone who barely knew him, Kevin made life warmer for the people fortunate enough to share space with him.
Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Captain Leonard J. "Len" Bara, USAF.
Above all else, Kevin treasured the family he grew into and the love he found in his later years. He is survived by:
• His wife and best friend, Erica, who loved him beyond measure.
• His mother, Connie Mazurek Bara;
• His brother, Michael Bara;
• His children through marriage, Matthew Lockwood, Rachel Lockwood (with Brian Cowin), and Andrew Lockwood;
• His adored grandchildren, Henry Cowin and Elise Cowin, who brought him immeasurable joy.
These relationships brought Kevin deep peace, belonging, and pride. His heart was wide open, and he always sought connection with the people in his life. In these last years, he found a family who welcomed him fully, who embraced his stories, his humor, his devotion, and his enormous capacity to love. That acceptance was one of his greatest comforts.
A military funeral service honoring Kevin's life will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate the life of a proud Marine and a deeply loved man.
A livestream of the service will be available for those unable to attend in person at:
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Kevin in a way that reflects the heart of who he was. Raise a glass, tell a story he'd laugh at, help someone who needs it - all the things he did instinctively. For those who wish to give, donations may be made to Toys for Tots, a Marine-led program he admired, or to any veteran or U.S. Marine Corps organization of your choosing. Supporting these programs is a meaningful way to honor a man who lived with generosity, loyalty, and deep pride as a Marine.