Fernando R. Lara, 78 of Las Cruces, NM, entered eternal life on December 4th, 2025, at Mountain View Hospital.

It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Fernando R. Lara, a devoted father, cherished husband, and steadfast friend. Fernando lived a life defined by kindness, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to his family.

Fernando was born in Las Cruces, NM to Ramon Lara and Eusebia Romero.

He found his greatest joy in being a father, guiding his boys with patience, wisdom, and unconditional love. Whether cheering from behind home plate, offering quiet words of encouragement, or sharing life lessons over the kitchen table, his presence was a constant source of strength and comfort.

Fernando was a man of simple pleasures and deep values. He loved football and watching his beloved Chicago Bears, while enjoying a cold Bud Light. Driving through Stahmann Farms and the pecan groves on a Sunday afternoon to go fishing on the Rio Grande, when it had water. Or having a night out enjoying a juicy steak at Texas Roadhouse for dinner and later dancing at Palacio Bar with his beautiful wife Rose.   It was tough raising and disciplining three boys and he did it with a simple whistle letting us know it was time to go home, a sharp snap of his belt, and a glaring stare over the top of his glasses that said, "wait until we get home" without saying it. Is all it took to keep us in line. We didn't know it at the time, but his firm attitude towards us had purpose for preparing us to be good and responsible men someday. He approached each day with gratitude and purpose. His generosity extended beyond his family, touching the lives of friends, neighbors, and anyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his beloved wife Rose M. Lara: Sons, Joseph A. Lara Sr. (Blanca), Raymond J. Lara, Eric F. Lara: Grandsons Joseph A. Lara Jr., Fernando Lara (aka Fernie): Granddaughters Daijah M. Lara, Kylie Chesebro-Lara, Emily Chesebro-Lara: Great Grandson Josiah Lara: and Brothers David Lara and Antonio (aka Tony) Lara.

He was preceded in in death by his Father Ramon Lara: Mother Eusebia Romero: Brothers Lorenzo, Joe (aka Chepe), Roberto (aka Bobby), Ramon (aka Monchi): Sisters Mary, Antonia, and Adela (aka Della).

A prayer vigil will be on Saturday January 10, 2025, at 10am at Our Lady of Health Catholic Church at 1178 North Mesquite Street. A Funeral Mass will follow the prayer vigil.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com