Obituary of Douglas “Bear” J. LaBarge

Douglas “Bear” J. LaBarge, age 53, of 5411 Madison Circle, Wisconsin Rapids died Wednesday August 10, 2011 at his home.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Nekoosa. Rev. John Swing will officiate. Friends may call at the church on Saturday from 9:00 – 10:00 AM. Feldner/Ritchay Funeral Home of Nekoosa is assisting the family.

Douglas was born July 11, 1958 in Wisconsin Rapids to Donald and Doris (Whitrock) LaBarge. He owned and operated Bear’s Auto in the town of Saratoga for over 25 years. He was recently employed at the Jacob Searles Cranberry Marsh. Douglas formerly served in the US Army and was a member of the Wisconsin Rapids American Legion Post 442.

Bear loved old cars and the Green Bay Packers.  He enjoyed fishing and hunting when he could find the time.  Bear was known for his stubbornness and also for his big heart.

Survived by: His girlfriend of 22 years   Lori Gotz

                            One Daughter                               Pauline (Fiancé Xeng Khang) LaBarge of  Nekoosa

                            His Father                                    Donald LaBarge of Wis. Rapids

                            Four Brothers                               Donald “Butch” (Margie) LaBarge

                                                                            Robert “Charlie” (Vicky) LaBarge

                                                                            Richard LaBarge

                                                                            Ronald LaBarge

                            One Sister                                    Diane (Ken) Carroll

He was preceded in death by his mother.