Jackie “Jack” Harold LaRue
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Jackie “Jack” Harold LaRue, 83, Lawrence, KS passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at The University of Kansas Medical Center.
Jack was born on March 8, 1940, in Burlington, KS, the son of Harold and Evelyn (Keith) LaRue.
Jack became a journeyman lineman at a young age while raising a growing family. He quickly worked his way up to become a general foreman, a role which included building high voltage power lines throughout the Midwest, along with restoring power after countless major storms left people in the dark.
Jack’s favorite pastime was spending time with his family. He also enjoyed fishing and hiking. He spent many happy days hiking the countryside around Scottsdale, AZ, a favorite retirement destination. Closer to home, he was an accomplished handyman and enjoyed tinkering in his workshop. He also loved KU sports, as well as the Royals and the Chiefs. He had an appreciation for nice cars, good steaks, and Mexican food.
Other survivors include his sons, Jamie Lee (Connie) LaRue, Randall Bart (Trish) LaRue, and Tighe Wayne (Margaret) LaRue; brother, Glen (Sandi) LaRue; sisters, Joan (Sonny) Herschell, and Violet Anderson; sister in law Sandy LaRue; eight grandchildren, Steve (Kenna) LaRue, Brett (Oksana) LaRue, Jeremy (Christina) LaRue, Josh LaRue, Brooke LaRue (Alex Chadwick), Taylor LaRue (Anish Patel), Catherine LaRue, and Nick LaRue; five great-grandchildren, Jon LaRue, Jack LaRue, Jace LaRue, AJ LaRue, and Natalie Shultz; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert LaRue; and sisters, Renee Hall, Lila Liggett, and Glenda Breese.
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in Jack’s name to Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Douglas County. Those gifts can be made online at https://www.4kidsake.org/make-a-donation/Donate. Donations can also be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.
Jack was very much loved by all who knew him. He was the kind of guy who would give away the coat off his back. Literally. Just ask the warmer construction worker down the road. He leaves a big hole in the hearts of all his family and friends.
Family and friends are invited to join for an open house Celebration of Life from 3:00 ~ 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Six Mile Chophouse and Tavern, 4931 W. 6th Street, Lawrence, KS 66049.
Prayers to his family. We loved him so much.
When I first met Jack I gave him the once over on how he treated my sister and he passed with flying colors. I saw how happy he made Phyllis and I loved him for that. It took very little time that I also saw this wonderful, kind man and loved him for the person he was.
Jack and Phyllis had a beautiful love story.
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to his family!
Prayers to the LaRue family. Jack was one of those guys who made you feel better when you were around him. Always a smile and a laugh, made you feel at ease when talking to him. A great human who raised a great family. He will be missed by all.
Jack was one of the Good Guys. I’m so very sorry to hear of his passing💔
Prayers for the LaRue family🙏🏻
growing up with Jack i have so many good memories.he was my big brother and always looked up to him he was a kind person then and that never changed always so proud of his family he will be missed by all that knew him.
We are so sorry to hear of Jack’s passing.
Our sympathy to all of you.
Phyllis,
I am so sorry to hear the news about Jack. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers and sending a hug!
So sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. He always had a joke or two for the ‘Drinks in the Driveway” and holiday gatherings at Hutton Farms. Sorry we were never able to connect when you came to Table Rock Lake. May God bless the family and comfort them during this time sorrow.
I’m so sorry to hear about Jack’s passing. I’m fortunate to be a member of the La Rue family. I was married to his brother Robert. Jack was always a pleasure to be around and he loved Phyllis and his family unconditionally. Jack will be missed.
Prayers to Trish & all the LaRue family following Jack’s passing.
Uncle Jack was a dedicated family man. He always loves his family so much. He had an easy way about himself and made a great life for himself and his family. He will be missed by all of his family and friends.
Prayers and condolences for his passing! I’ll always remember him fondly.
We’re very sorry to hear about Jack’s passing. Although we hadn’t spent a lot of time around him, what time we did get with him was fun and very enjoyable. He was a good man and will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to all.
Rest in peace, my dear friend, Jack. I was blessed to be in your world. You made all who loved you happy because we were loved by you. I know your smile is making heaven even brighter.
Sorry to read about the loss of Jack. Thoughts and prayers Phyllis as you morn the loss of Jack. Hugs dear friend.
So sorry to hear of this. Jack was a great neighbor and friend. Hugs and prayers to Phyllis and family.
I’m so sorry for your loss Phyllis! Jack was a great guy with fun conversation and outlook. He will be missed!
Uncle Jack was half of a really fun couple to be around. We will always remember his great sense of humor and his natural way of bringing a relaxed vibe into the room. May his celebration this evening be as uplifting and as full of love as he was. And may his memory be eternal.
I am so saddened by the sudden loss of Uncle Jack. He was such a wonderful man and I know how much you all meant to him.
Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I will only remember him smiling, happy and sharing laughter.
He is going to be missed so much. The celebration of is life was a perfect tribute to him!
Jack was one the Best teachers I had in my apprenticeship. He was a great mentor, person and a dear friend.