Robert J. LaBar

Former Chief Robert "Bob" James LaBar, 77, of Cresco, PA passed away Monday August 21, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born in East Stroudsburg, PA to Charles W. LaBar and Linnie (Bradford) LaBar. Along with his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Jane Boise. Bob was the loving husband of Mabel "May" (Harrison) LaBar, to whom he was married for 55 years, although he claims he received a year off for good behavior. Along with May, he is survived by his siblings, Charles L. LaBar and wife Marlene, and Ann Chopek; children Christopher R. Harrison and wife Susan, and Joshua LaBar; grandchildren Edward R. Harrison, and Rebecca M. Harrison and husband Carson Counterman; great-granddaughter Jessica Harrison; niece Arlene "Suzie" LaBar and great nephew Weston LaBar; and sisters-in-law Lorraine (Harrison) Smith and Josephine (Harrison) Fish.
Bob graduated from East Stroudsburg School District in 1965 where he had played varsity football and basketball, scoring over 1,000 points. After graduating, Bob started his lifelong career serving the public in 1968 on the Stroud Township Police Force, after which he joined the Barrett Township Police Department as a patrolman in 1970, and in 1971 was promoted to Barrett Township Chief of Police where he served for 30 years.
Along with his lifelong career in public service, Bob was a member of many organizations, including Monroe County Beagle Club, Pocono Cooners Inc., Barrett Township Community Club, Pocono Masonic Lodge #780 and Fraternal Order of Police Stroud Lodge #75. He was a follower of the Methodist faith, which gave him strength and led his dedication to others.
During his leisure time, Bob was an avid sportsman, enjoying time outside hunting, fishing, and golfing. His knowledge of local roads from his work aided him in being able to take leisurely drives to see the all colors of fall or the twinkle of Christmas lights. He could often be found visiting the local diners to converse over a cup of coffee, as he never missed an opportunity to strike up a conversation with those around him. Bob knew how to take the time to smell the flowers.
Bob was rightfully honored throughout his life with many awards and certificates of achievement. Some of these include: Police Officer of the Year, an Accommodation for Bravery from the Barrett Township Supervisors, Certificated of Recognition from the American Red Cross for Extraordinary Personal Action, and a Certificate of Accommodation for a life saving act in 1980 from the Top of the Mountain Parade Committee. Along with these, he was honored for his contributions to golf tournaments to raise funds for The Barrett Community Club and granted an Appreciation Award from the Fraternal Order of Police for his countless hours on the Golf and Picnic Committee.
Services honoring our beloved husband and father will be hosted at the William H. Clark Funeral Home, 1003 Main Street Stroudsburg on Friday August 25th, 2023. Visitation will bee from 11:00 am -1:00 pm with services to follow at 1:00 pm. There will be a gathering after the services at Carazza's Restaurant-371 Rt.390 Cresco, PA 18326.
Private burial will take place at a later date at Oakland Cemetery in Mountainhome.