Jackie LaRue Obituary

Jackie "Jack" Harold LaRue, 83, Lawrence, KS passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at The University of Kansas Medical Center.

Jack was born on March 8, 1940, in Burlington, KS, the son of Harold and Evelyn (Keith) LaRue.

Jack became a journeyman lineman at a young age while raising a growing family. He quickly worked his way up to become a general foreman, a role which included building high voltage power lines throughout the Midwest, along with restoring power after countless major storms left people in the dark.

He married Phyllis in Lawrence, KS on July 13, 1996. They had 28 very happy years together. She survives at home.

Jack's favorite pastime was spending time with his family. He also enjoyed fishing and hiking. He spent many happy days hiking the countryside around Scottsdale, AZ, a favorite retirement destination. Closer to home, he was an accomplished handyman and enjoyed tinkering in his workshop. He also loved KU sports, as well as the Royals and the Chiefs. He had an appreciation for nice cars, good steaks, and Mexican food.

Other survivors include his sons, Jamie Lee (Connie) LaRue, Randall Bart (Trish) LaRue, and Tighe Wayne (Margaret) LaRue; brother, Glen (Sandi) LaRue; sisters, Joan (Sonny) Herschell, and Violet Anderson; sister in law Sandy LaRue; eight grandchildren, Steve (Kenna) LaRue, Brett (Oksana) LaRue, Jeremy (Christina) LaRue, Josh LaRue, Brooke LaRue (Alex Chadwick), Taylor LaRue (Anish Patel), Catherine LaRue, and Nick LaRue; five great-grandchildren, Jon LaRue, Jack LaRue, Jace LaRue, AJ LaRue, and Natalie Shultz; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert LaRue; and sisters, Renee Hall, Lila Liggett, and Glenda Breese.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in Jack's name to Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Douglas County. Those gifts can be made online at https://www.4kidsake.org/make-a-donation/Donate. Donations can also be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Jack was very much loved by all who knew him. He was the kind of guy who would give away the coat off his back. Literally. Just ask the warmer construction worker down the road. He leaves a big hole in the hearts of all his family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to join for an open house Celebration of Life from 3:00 ~ 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Six Mile Chophouse and Tavern, 4931 W. 6th Street, Lawrence, KS 66049.

For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.