A legacy of generosity: Beloved Lahaina father remembered for all that he gave in life

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Loved ones are remembering Joseph Lara as a father who was incredibly funny and always giving.

The 86-year-old supervisor at Maui Electric on Lanai was confirmed to be among those killed in the Lahaina fire. His car was found charred near the Lahaina Outlet Mall.

Special Section: Those We Lost in Lahaina

Lara’s daughter says he was known for being so generous.

“He would always go to Safeway, $5 Fridays and he would buy stuff that were unnecessary,” said Misty Lara.

“People would say they would see him down at Mala Warf just giving people stuff that he bought.”

For Lara’s ohana, their wish is that Maui remains united in these life changing times.

“The uplifting of the soul is what we need right now so any little thing helps,” said Kiha Kaina.

“When you make someone smile for a minute, it goes a long way.”

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