Jennifer Bridget LaBarre

Jennifer Bridget LaBarre was born on August 26, 1975 at William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan. She passed away, surrounded by loved ones, on March 19, 2023. Jenny is survived by her parents K. “Scott” and Mary LaBarre, brothers Rob (Kim) LaBarre (Lansing) and Adam (Mandy) LaBarre, (Traverse City), nephew Briggs LaBarre, nieces Natalie, Molly and Emilia LaBarre, and step nephews Kyle Wigglesworth and Derek Falor, and aunt Charlene LaBarre (Epsom, NH). Jenny discovered a love for horses at the age of 8, and was an avid equestrian and student of the horse. She belonged to the Leelanau County 4H equestrian club led by Eleanor Miller. She attended St. Francis Elementary and High Schools through grade 9, and then transferred to Traverse City Central and graduated in 1993. Jenny excelled in math and sciences and had planned to study veterinary medicine. She had a huge heart and always fought for the underdog. She loved her family and friends, and had an infectious smile and a quick wit. Jenny suffered a near drowning accident on July 9, 1994 that left her with a significant anoxic brain injury. She was cared for in her parent’s home, with the help of many wonderful doctors and caregivers, until her death. A special thanks to Sarah Rohl and Susan Flynn who were with us until Jenny’s last breath. Jenny loved being with family, being read to, watching movies, playing simple games on her special computer by using eye movements, and listening to her favorite tunes. She also loved spending summer time outside in her special gardens or on the screened porch, going for drives in beautiful Leelanau County, going to the beaches, and visiting the horses. Scott and Mary are honored and grateful to have been able to care for Jenny at home for 29 years, maintaining her dignity and safety, and surrounding her with love. Jenny left a tremendous impact on all those who knew her and cared for her. A celebration of Her life will take place at 11am on Sunday, June 11 2023 in the Gardens of the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A visitation will begin at 10am. Memorial contributions in her memory may be directed to Horse North Rescue. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Jennifer Bridget LaBarre

August 26, 1975 - March 19, 2023