John David Van Lare, 66, of Duncan, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, April 30, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on September 27, 1959, in Clifton Springs, New York, to Alwin and Joan (Karvar) Van Lare.

After graduating high school, John proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he served his country for 20 years and retired with the rank of Sergeant First Class. Following his military career, he continued his hardworking nature as a truck driver.

On August 10, 1987, John married the love of his life, Sherry Burden, and together they raised four children: William, Candice, Jessica, and Hallie. John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was the one his daughters called whenever something needed to be fixed, always showing up with the tools, patience, and know-how to make things right. He spent countless hours baking for bake sales, setting up and tearing down equipment, and sitting through long days in booths to help raise money for one thing or another. He found joy in following his grandchildren to competitions like karate and cheer, and especially band. He loved watching them succeed in something they worked so hard toward.

John loved the outdoors and spent countless hours shooting, hunting, and fishing. He also had a passion for smoking meat and cooking-especially when it meant sharing good food with the people he loved most. He also had a deep love for classic cars and drag racing, passions that brought him excitement, pride, and countless memories over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Ezekiel Hurst.

John is survived by his wife, Sherry; his children, William Anderson and wife Makayla, Candice Rice, Jessica Rounds and husband Drew, and Hallie Hurst and husband James; and his grandchildren: Aedyn Anderson, Tristan Knighton, Aura Anderson, Trinity Madere and husband Dalton, Seth Jordan, Skyler Jordan, Alyssa Stamm, DJ Stamm, Jailyn Belshe, Jayla Belshe, Lilly Rounds, David Rounds, Keyliegh Hurst, Bristol Hurst, Ahison Hurst, and Peak Hurst.

He is also survived by his siblings: Christopher Van Lare and wife Kathy, Robert Van Lare and wife Cindy, Wilma Nickerson, and Mary Bastable.

A memorial service is planned for 11:00 A.M., Friday, May 15, at the Fairlawn Cemetery Pavillion in Comanche with Pastor Kelly Pollock officiating. Cremation arrangements are being handled by Whitt Funeral Home/Oakcrest Cremation Center.

Online condolences can be made at www.whittfh.com.