Carmen Lara

Carmen Lara ( Contreras)’s Story 1945-2025 Chicago, IL. Born on January 5, 1945, in El Paso,Texas, Carmen was a woman of resilience and determination. In 1976, with only a fourth-grade education, she made the courageous journey to Chicago, Illinois, as a single mother raising three children. Through hard work and perseverance, she built a life for her family and became a beloved member of her community. Carmen had a deep love for her neighborhood of Rogers Park, where she spent many years surrounded by friends and familiar faces. Her faith was an essential part of her life; she was a devoted Catholic who never missed Christmas midnight Mass, always making the trip by bus to St. Jerome Church. She is survived by her daughters Emma V. Anleu and Irma Y. Gomez; her grandchildren Jasmine V. Anleu, Luis H. Anleu Jr., Emmanuel B. Anleu, Angelo Lara, Robert A. Gomez, Alexandra Y. Gomez. She was preceded in death by her husband Manuel Lara Jr.,and her son Manuel R. Lara. Carmen will always be remembered for her strength, dedication to her family, and unwavering spirit. She will be deeply missed and forever loved by those who knew her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carmen Lara, please visit our floral store.