Michael Bare Obituary
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He wrestled and played football during his school years, and married his high school sweetheart on November 11, 1978, in Akron, Ohio.
In the years that followed, he successfully managed and developed businesses in the transportation and logistics industries, happily provided employment and mentorship opportunities to family and friends, and capably served the financial planning needs of hundreds of grateful clients-all while never missing the important moments of his kids' or grandkids' lives.
He maintained high integrity, was fiercely loyal, and led by example. He deeply loved and served his family, friends, church, and clients. He cherished being able to make others laugh, share helpful advice, and shower them with gifts.
His favorite activities were drinking tea with his wife, fishing, cruising on his boat, sharing "dad joke" texts with his grandkids, grilling meat, buying too many items at the grocery store, listening to vintage vinyl, going to concerts with his family, and helping his kids complete various projects around the house.
Most importantly, he walked with Jesus in a way that announced and demonstrated the gospel of the kingdom of God.
Michael passed away peacefully and unexpectedly on the morning of January 16, 2025, at his home in Wheaton, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gloria Bare, and is survived by two older siblings, Susan Dohl and George Bare.
His love and legacy is carried on by his wife, Karla, his sons and their wives, Michael and Leah, and Brian and Amy, as well as his five grandchildren and one grandchild on the way.
He was a force of nature, and so incredibly loved. As he used to say, "Not bad for a kid from Detroit."
Please send your best "Mike Bare Stories" to the family at [email protected].
VISITATION
Hultgren Funeral Home
304 N. Main St.
Wheaton, IL 60187
January 23, 2025, 4:00-8:00pm
CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE
College Church
332 E. Seminary Ave.
Wheaton, IL 60187
January 24, 2025, 11:00am
*The service will be livestreamed through this link: Livestream for Michael Bare
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dave & Kim Miller
January 25, 2025
Mike and Karla will remain in our hearts and prayers --- RIP, my friend.
Dave & Kim Miller
Andrew & Gail Matthiesen
January 24, 2025
Mike was one special person to my wife and me. He had the personnel touch.
It was always great to talk to him about boating. Very helpful in our financials.
He will be missed.
Wertke Mary
January 22, 2025
Mike became so very important to me when my husband died at an early age 14 years ago! He stayed true to his promise to my husband to make sure myself and my kids would be financially secure!
He helped through my roughest years and he will be so missed by many!
My heart and prayers go out to his loving wife and wonderful children and grandchildren that he spoke so highly and proud!
He was so special!
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Wayne & Julie Martindale
January 22, 2025
Mike was solid. There was never any doubt about his love for the Lord or for his wife, son´s, daughters in law and grandkids. He also loved and served the church. He was unfailingly kind to all and served his clients with a cheerful heart. We were all better for knowing him, and we thank God for the privilege.
Wayne & Julie Martindale
Steve Nelson
January 21, 2025
Mike was a great leader. He knew when to push and when to hug. I am so grateful that I had the privilege of knowing him and he will forever be in my heart.
The Hultgren Family and Staff
January 21, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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