Andrew D. Lara

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Andrew D. Lara on March 2, 2026. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his closest family.

Andrew was many things to many people: a devoted husband, father, brother, coach, community member, and friend.

Born on July 22, 1973, Andrew built a life rooted in warmth, laughter, and commitment. He and Rhonda Lara married on July 29, 1995, beginning a partnership that spanned three decades and anchored their family with love, humor, and unwavering dedication. Whether riding his Indian motorcycle with Rhonda on the back or playing Yahtzee around the kitchen table, Andrew valued the everyday moments that make a life meaningful.

No moment was without a joke or a playful smile; no interaction was without a song recommendation and an offer to help.

Andrew was a dedicated father to Ian and Cameron Lara, investing deeply in their lives both on and off the soccer field. Parenting was his calling, and by far the part of his life that he was the proudest: he loved being a dad and knew it was the most important thing he would ever do.

Andrew coached youth and varsity soccer for nearly two decades, not just for his sons, but for an entire community of Wellington athletes. He showed up — to games, to field trips, to school events, and he made it clear that being present mattered.

Andrew worked faithfully at Douglass & Associates for 29 years, embodying reliability and integrity. Even when he was sick, he made sure the printers were always running.

Beyond work and family, Andrew gave generously of his time, volunteering as a DJ for school dances and local fundraisers, sharing his love of music with anyone within earshot. A self-taught guitarist and drummer, an 80s enthusiast, a BMX rider and collector, fisherman, and horror movie fanatic, Andrew embraced life with enthusiasm, play and authenticity.

He is survived by his wife, Rhonda Lara; his sons, Ian Lara (Logan) and Cameron Lara; his brothers, Adam and Rudy Lara and his sister Angela Hendrix; and his parents, Patty and George Elkin, and his father-in-law, Ron Mosher.

Andrew’s legacy lives in the countless lives he touched — through cheesy jokes, genuine connection, and a lifetime of showing up.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Drew Guyer Memorial Foundation.

Community visitation and gathering will be from 1-6 pm on Sunday, March 8 at Norton- Eastman Funeral Home, 370 S. Main St., Wellington, OH 44090. Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared online at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.