Eugene Ray Bare

Eugene “Gene” Ray Bare, a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Indianapolis on September 11, 2025, after a difficult battle with Parkinson's and a stroke. Born on May 5th, 1940, to Marlin and Eva Faye Bare in Greensburg, IN. Gene’s journey through life was marked by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family.

From a young age, Gene demonstrated a strong work ethic that would follow him throughout his life. He began his career as a paper boy, delivering newspapers for the Indianapolis Times at the tender age of nine, taking up the evening route after school. By the age of thirteen, he was up before dawn, continuing his daily deliveries at 4:30 AM. Gene’s diligence and commitment to service then transitioned from the newspaper route to the aisles of the A&P grocery store during high school, where he made lasting memories.

Gene’s education was foundational in shaping his aspirations. A proud graduate of Shortridge High School, he pursued further studies in architecture at IUPUI, a testament to his interests and ambitions that reached beyond the realm of his professional life.

At nineteen, Gene embarked on a significant chapter of his career with the United Parcel Service (UPS). Over 36 years, he rose through various ranks—from a tag processor to a purchasing agent, through human resources, and ultimately serving as a customer account executive. It was during this time he met Bonnie, the love of his life, and the two would go on to share 43 wonderful years of marriage, a bond strengthened by their mutual respect and love for each other. Over the decades, Gene’s oldest son Mark, had the privilege of meeting numerous UPS drivers in Indianapolis, who asked (due to the unique last name) if he knew Gene Bare. Mark always proudly stated, yes I do, he is my father! These drivers then proceeded to tell Mark how his dad changed the course of their families lives, by hiring them at UPS. Such an embodiment of how Gene positively touched so many lives.

Gene was an active member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Franklin, Indiana, where he found comfort and community. He had a penchant for golfing, enjoying leisurely afternoons on the green, and his fascination with cars, which began in childhood inspired by his father’s auto repair shop, never waned. Gene and Bonnie were able to spend twenty years of retirement at Gene’s dream lake home on Lamb Lake.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, remembered fondly by his dear wife, Bonnie Bare; his sons, Mark (DeAnn) Bare and Randy Bare; his daughters, Amanda (Thomas) Evans and Laura (Matthew) Fortress; his beloved grandchildren, Madeline Bare, Holden Bare, Samantha Bare, Savannah Evans, Preston Evans, Thomas Evans, Lilly Fortress, Chase Zebrasky, and Isla Fortress; as well as his adored siblings, Richard (Dick) Bare, Nathan Bare, and Marsha Bare along with so many treasured friends.

A remembrance service will be held at St. Luke’s UMC North Indy on Sunday, 9/28, from 1:30 - 3pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation - https://www.parkinson.org