Memorial

William Ernest “Bill” Bare, age 80, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in Oklahoma City, OK. He was born on March 18, 1946, in Horton, KS, to Charles F. and Alma (Rickell) Bare.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1966. Following his military service, he attended A&P school and then began his professional career as an aircraft mechanic. He worked for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) until his retirement in 2008.

Bill’s work with sheet metal and welding naturally led to his varied hobbies, in which he was both skilled and meticulous. He loved working with his hands and had a remarkable ability to fix just about anything. He enjoyed the outdoors, spending time fishing, and time with his grandchildren.

A creative and warm-hearted man, Bill was a faithful member of St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church, Yukon, OK and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He will be remembered for his kindness, craftsmanship, and willingness to always lend a helping hand to those in need.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Charles F. and Alma (Rickell) Bare; his brother, Charles F. Bare, Jr.; and many extended family members.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Bare; daughters, Sharon Bird and her husband, Randy, of Stratford, Oklahoma and children Ashlyn and Riley, and Sandy Penny and her husband, Jason, of Corinth, Texas; and children Jacob, Nathan and Caden; in addition to brothers and sisters in law, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on August 25, 2026, at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church in Yukon, OK, with interment following at Yukon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Bill’s name to a local veteran’s organization or charity of your choice.