of Conway, AR
September 14, 1954 - October 25, 2025
John Michael ''Mike'' Lar, 71, of Conway, Arkansas, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025. He was born on September 14, 1954, in Billings, Montana.
Mike grew up in Montana, where he spent his youth working on cattle ranches and attending one-room schoolhouse often joking that the walk was uphill both ways. In 1973, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. After completing his training at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas, he was stationed at Ramstein Air Base in Ramstein-Miesenbach, Germany. It was there that he met the love of his life, Wanda, with whom he shared 50 wonderful years of marriage.
Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force in April 1979, Mike returned to Montana with Wanda, where they both attended Montana State University. Mike graduated with highest honors and began what became his lifelong calling education.
His first teaching position took them to Dull Knife Memorial College in Lame Deer, Montana, in 1983. The following year, they moved to Conway, Arkansas, where Mike became Director of Channel 6, a partnership between the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) and Conway Corporation. While serving as Director and teaching in UCA's Mass Communications Department, Mike earned both his MBA and doctorate degrees. Under his leadership, Channel 6 grew into a full production studio.
In 1999, Mike joined the Arkansas Department of Education and established the ADE Distance Learning Center, the state's first virtual school. His vision and leadership helped shape online education in Arkansas. In 2013, he became Director of Operations for Virtual Arkansas, continuing his commitment to providing innovative learning opportunities for students across the state.
Mike was a man of faith and a member of Harmony Baptist Church. He loved college sports, fishing, and tending his yard. A devoted Denver Broncos fan and a proud supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks, Mike never missed a good game. Above all, he cherished time with his family. Known for his sharp wit and unmistakably unique sense of humor, he delighted in pulling pranks on those he loved most.
Mike's presence brought laughter, wisdom, and warmth to everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph R. and Marjorie R. Lar; his sister, Laurie J. Lar; and his grandparents, Joseph and Emma Bosen.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda; his sons, Scott (Holly) Lar and Brandon (Brittany) Lar; and his cherished grandchildren, Landon (11), Shelby (9), Ethan (7), Logan (4), Harrison (3), and Lincoln (1). He also leaves behind his siblings, Matt Lar, Shawn (Pam) Lar, and Connie (Rocky) Lar, all of Montana.
A visitation will be from 6-8 p.m at Roller Funeral Home in Conway on Wednesday, October 29th. A funeral service will be held at 4:30 p.m. at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway on Thursday, October 30th.