Adán Lara

August 27, 1968 - June 30, 2025

Obituary

Adán Mejia Lara was born in Brownsville, TX on August 27, 1968, to Maria Eugenia Mejia and Jesus Lara. After the death of his parents, Adán’s brother, Arcadio, relocated the family to Madison when they were young, in order to care for them. Adán graduated from UW Madison, MATC, and The University of Calgary. Education was very important to Adán. Not only was he knowledgeable in computers, but he was also a jack of all trades by being skilled with plumbing, electrical, drywall, flooring and so much more. Adán learned anything he needed to in order to get something done. Nothing was impossible, there was always a way. When she was little, his daughter, Emmi, would tell people, “Don’t worry, my Daddy can fix it.” He was a hero to so many as he passed his knowledge on so others could advance also. Adán was proud of and thoroughly enjoyed his position at the City of Madison as a Database Administrator.

He and his sweetheart, Jody, recently celebrated 28 years of marriage on June 7. As best friends, they were always together, even working from home together in recent years. The storms and waves of life were weathered together, hand in hand. Adán enjoyed watching football occasionally and was well-informed in politics, but his sole focus was taking care of his family. He spent most every moment trying to improve life for his wife and children. Adán woke up early every morning to make breakfast and drive the kids to school. He loved this special time with them, teaching them and listening to their thoughts and ideas as well as what music they were into. Adán was a true comedian all the way up to his last moments. As we remember him, there is as much laughter as tears. His son recently said, “He was perfect.” Indeed, he was.

Adán is survived by his wife, Jody, daughter, Emelina Eugenia, son, Adán Benito. He is further survived by brothers, Alfonso Lara, Carlos Lara, Jesus Lara, and sisters, Alma Lara, Nora Davila, and Elsa Nardi (Brett), Mother-in-Law Carla Eakins, Sister-in-Law Carmen Griffith, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brother, Arcadio.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 5th from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at First Baptist Church, 518 No Franklin Avenue, Madison, WI. A funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. Luncheon will follow. A private burial will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park.

We especially want to thank Dr. Lucey and Dr. Kratz at UW Hospital for all of the wonderful care, as well as many nurses and other care staff. Adán was so appreciative.

Adán Lara, you will live on in our hearts, our minds, our laughter, and our tears.

Until we meet again, my love.

Events

Visitation

Sat Jul 5, 2025 @ 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT

First Baptist Church • 518 N Franklin Ave, Madison, WI 53705

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Funeral Service

Sat Jul 5, 2025 @ 1:00 PM CDT

First Baptist Church • 518 N Franklin Ave, Madison, WI 53705

Get Directions Send Flowers for Adán's Funeral Service

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Memories

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Jeff Margenau

Friend • 9 days ago

My life would have been way different if it were not for Adán. He was responsible for giving me a leg up when I started at the DNR. He showed me the ropes and guided me around the political pitfalls. As others have said, he had a fierce love for his family. He would always have a humorous story to share about Emmy or Benny and never a disparaging comment. He was one of the nicest men I have known in my life and has served as an inspiration for myself and many others. Here's to you good buddy! Till we meet again...

Paul

Friend • 11 days ago

Adán came on board with the City during the pandemic. Most of us worked remotely, so it would be some time before we would meet in person. Still, we made fast friends. He was a quick study, eager to learn, even with challenging projects. It all seemed... fun... to him. He made me feel at ease, sharing personal stories (going both ways) as well. Always willing to lend an ear. Our in-person gatherings/meetings were too few and far-between, but were always highlighted with that BIG, engaging smile. My prayers are with Jody, Emmi, Beni and the extended family. God-speed, Adán.

Theresa Lenaghan

Friend • 13 days ago

I did not know Adan well but through wiring with Jody, I know he was so loved. He had a fierce sense of humor that made Jody giggle most every day. He was quick to help and offer guidance without hesitation. I will always remember the "Jesus photo" he did and the joy it brought his family. What an amazing guy! He will be truly missed.

David

Friend • 14 days ago

I’ll always remember Adan’s smile - it was warm, genuine, and ever-present. No matter the situation, he carried a positive and upbeat spirit that lifted everyone around him. He had a remarkable ability to see the bright side of things, and that perspective left a lasting impact on me. There was no challenge too big for Adan, no situation that could shake his calm. If something went wrong at the restaurant, he’d fix it without fuss. If his kids were caught up in some drama, he’d laugh, confident they’d work it out. His steady optimism was both comforting and inspiring. I hold dear the memories of spontaneous nights out with Adan and Jody—grabbing beers just because, enjoying each other’s company without needing a reason. I also treasure the many dinners we shared, filled with laughter and plates of food that defied culinary borders - Jodie's weird Feta and Olive thing, Adan's Guacamole, Salsa, & Gyros, etc - all lovingly prepared by Jody and Adan. Adan’s smile and spirit remain with me. His joy, resilience, and kindness will never be forgotten.

Alexis