Frederick Lara

Frederick “Papa” Lara, born on December 3rd, 1946, a beloved father and friend passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy built on love, humor, and unwavering devotion to the people he cherished. To know Fred was to feel welcomed, understood, and cared for - no matter who you were or where you came from. He had a remarkable ability to bring comfort with just a few words, a joke, or his steady presence. He is survived by his two daughters, Clarese and Marissa, his four grandchildren, his brothers and sisters and so many other family and friends.

Born with a spirit of resilience and strength, Fred lived a life that was defined by hard work, loyalty, and deep family values. He was a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a leader, and most importantly, a Papa. He served his country in the Vietnam War, and he carried with him the unseen weight of his service, quietly bearing the brunt of those memories so his family could live with greater opportunity and hope than he ever had himself. He was an entrepreneur, who started Preferred Plumbing from the ground up. He ran this business, serving San Diego for 40+ years. He always said, “It’s a shitty job, but someone has to do it.” This is just one of many examples of Fred’s ability to bring humor to any conversation. He believed in showing up consistently for the people he loved. Whether through his wisdom (he loved to share stories of his experiences), or his ability to make any room feel like home, he shaped the lives of his family in ways that will carry on for generations to come. His impact on so many is undeniable.

Fred was the heart of countless gatherings as he was a great storyteller and the steady anchor during life’s challenging times. He taught his family what truly matters: kindness, honesty, humility, and the importance of always sticking together. His grandchildren knew him not only as a grandfather, but as a confidant, a guide, and a source of endless love and adoration. He was their Papa—reliable, gentle, overly generous and forever proud of them.

Friends and loved ones will remember Fred for his humor, his deep compassion, and his ability to listen and provide counsel in times of need. He led by example, never seeking recognition, yet always leaving a profound impact. He was forever in service to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the memories he created, and the love he poured freely into the world.

Though our hearts are incredibly heavy with his passing, they are equally full - with immeasurable gratitude for the time and endless memories we were all blessed to share with him, and for the imprint he has left on us all. As we say goodbye, we carry forward his lessons, his spirit, and the deep love that defined his life. Fred was a shining example of the quote “It’s not how you start, but it’s how you finish.”

Frederick “Papa” Lara will be missed more than words can ever express, but his presence will continue to guide us, comfort us, and bring us together—just as he always did.

The family extends a huge heartfelt thank-you to all friends, loved ones and hospital staff whose support, compassion, and steady presence have carried them through this difficult time. Your kindness has provided strength, comfort, and yet, another reminder of how deeply Fred was loved.

Papa, we love you infinity!

May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

Frederick's final resting place will be at Eternal Hills Mortuary Chapel, located at 1999 El Camino Real, Oceanside. The burial is scheduled for January 16, 2026.