Jose L. Lara

José L. Lara, age 94, peacefully passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Joliet, Illinois. Known affectionately as “The Godfather,” José dedicated much of his life to helping others as a spokesperson for Alcoholics Anonymous, inspiring countless individuals through his compassion, wisdom, and encouragement.

José had a deep love for soccer, cheering passionately for his favorite team, Las Chivas, and enjoying a pizza while watching the games. He will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his family and community.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Julia Hernández; his brother, Julián Lara; and his beloved niece, Juanita Lara.

He is survived by his devoted sons, Marco Antonio Lara and Fernando Lara; his grandchildren, Luis Fernando Lara, Viridiana Lara, and Arianna Lara; and his great-grandchilden, Ailiana and Melina, who will carry forward his legacy of love and kindness.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Sunday, December 14, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL. Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 710 W Marion St, Joliet, IL. Cremation will follow in accordance with his wishes, and burial will be held privately.

José’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and service, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

José L. Lara, de 94 años, falleció pacíficamente el vVernes 5 de Diciembre de 2025 en Joliet, Illinois. Conocido cariñosamente como “El Padrino”, José dedicó gran parte de su vida a ayudar a los demás como portavoz de Alcohólicos Anónimos, inspirando a innumerables personas con su compasión, sabiduría y ánimo.

José sentía un gran amor por el fútbol, animando con pasión a su equipo favorito, Las Chivas, y disfrutando de una pizza mientras veía los partidos. Será recordado por su calidez, generosidad y su compromiso inquebrantable con su familia y su comunidad.

Le preceden en la muerte su madre, Julia Hernández; su hermano, Julián Lara; y su querida sobrina, Juanita Lara.

Lo sobreviven sus dedicados hijos, Marco Antonio Lara y Fernando Lara; sus nietos, Luis Fernando Lara, Viridiana Lara y Arianna Lara; y sus bisnietas, Ailiana y Melina, quienes continuarán su legado de amor y bondad.

Se invita a familiares y amigos a una visita el Domingo 14 de Diciembre de 2025, de 4:00 p.m. a 8:00 p.m., en Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL. Los servicios funerarios se celebrarán el Lunes 15 de Diciembre de 2025, a las 10:00 a.m., en la Iglesia Católica St. Patrick, 710 W Marion St, Joliet, IL. La cremación se realizará de acuerdo con sus deseos, y el entierro será privado.

La vida de José fue un testimonio del poder del amor, la fe y el servicio, y su memoria será atesorada por todos los que lo conocieron.