Obituary of Marianne Hare
Marianne Hare, born in Windsor, Ontario in 1944 to Mary Haas and Joseph Lazar (deceased), lived her life with one guiding principle: family forever.
She was predeceased by her loving brothers, Joseph and Gerald Lazar, and was the high school sweetheart and devoted partner of Joseph Hare for 59 beautiful years. Barely a day was spent apart. Joe lovingly cared for her and held her hand nightly (after her evening foot massage) from the day they were wed. Their first date was at the Western Fair, and they returned every year after.
Together they were the ultimate dream team, lovingly known as NANAPAPA by their cherished grandchildren Jared and Nadine Reis, and Aidan, Cassidy, and Drew Moulton. They never missed an opportunity to attend a sporting event, recital, or game—whether make-believe in younger years or competitive in later ones.
Marianne was the best friend to her daughters Marnie Hare (Jonathan Reis) and Jodie Hare-Moulton (Daniel Moulton). She was a proud and loving Auntie to Jason Lazar (Trish Regier) and a devoted great-aunt to Zoey and Zack.
Daily chats with her daughter in Victoria can never be replaced. Time spent together on the porch by the sea, watching boats go by beneath the plaque “NANAPAPA’s Porch,” will never feel the same without her. JoJo faithfully waited for their daily 11:00 a.m. phone call, where Mom would listen intently to the comings and goings of family life.
She loved her daughters’ partners as her own. While many might list accomplishments, Marianne would want to be remembered for her family, friendships, and the countless lives she touched during her many years of teaching. She loved unconditionally, listened without judgment, and offered warmth without expectation.
Faith was central to her life. She and Joe were founding members of St. Justin’s Church, where she was deeply involved over the years. During her illness, the church was one of the things she missed most.
We would love to name all of her dear friends, but there are too many to list—please know how grateful we are to each of you for being there for her. We also extend heartfelt thanks to the angels on Floor 4 at Parkwood Hospital and her nurse at home Trevor, who cared for her with such kindness and compassion in her final weeks.
For her 80th birthday, a plaque was made listing 80 Things We Love About You. In truth, it should have been eight billion things—or to Pluto and back (a beloved family joke).
Here are just a few that capture our dear Wifey, Mommy, Momma, Mom, Nana, Auntie, and friend, who will forever be missed—and which we laughed about together as the end drew near:
best sugary cereal • deep faith • gorgeous rose garden • contagious laugh • queen of puzzles • warm embrace • Friday freezer night • Wheel of Fortune whiz • lifeguard • cappuccino yogurt • thoughtful, underlined cards • wicked bridge player • best Nana to her fur babies • slow dancing with Joe every Saturday to the oldies • #1 Days of Our Lives fan
We end this goodbye as we began: “Family forever.”
In her memory, hold a loved one close. Tell them you love them and that they matter. Listen unconditionally and with your whole heart. By doing so, you carry forward the love and legacy of Marianne Hare.
Visitors will be received at St. Justin's Church, 855 Jalna Blvd., on Wednesday, December 31 from 9:30 am unitl the time of the Funeral Mass at 10 o'clock. Private Interment in St. Peter's Cemetery to follow.
In lieu of flowers please think of donating to Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation (www.lhsf.ca)
