On Sunday, August 8, 2021, Jared Daniel Lautenschlager, beloved husband and father of six children, passed away at the age of 40.

Jared was born on October 21, 1980 in Prescott, AZ to Greg and Andrea (Davis) Lautenschlager. He spent most of his childhood in Mesa, AZ with his siblings David and Aubrey (Nansel), and later served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Jared met his sweetheart and best friend, Rachel Christine Erickson long before he married her on May 18, 2002 for time and all eternity in the Mesa, AZ temple. Jared and Rachel are blessed with six incredible children: Karianna (16), JD (15), Jordan (13), Sara (11), James (9), and Jackson (7). While parenting, Jared achieved his BS in psychology from Arizona State University and his MBA from California Lutheran University. Much of Jared's professional ventures occurred in higher education before exploring the software sales industry. He loved to share his spirit through song, learn about a wide range of topics, watch a good Suns basketball game, and invest in his kids with outings, movies, and all manners of "Dad jokes."

Jared was the model of love, kindness, and strength, with a bit of charisma thrown in. He was a fantastic storyteller with a knack for debating politics, analyzing conspiracy theories, and making sure everyone felt awesome. His abilities to befriend anyone, offer a safe place, bolster confidence, bear testimony, and love unconditionally set him apart as a hero to many. Jared yearned for truth and his thirst for knowledge brought him a deep understanding of God, compassion, eternity, and grace. While he worked to become the best version of himself, he brought light and acceptance to all he met. Perhaps his greatest goals in life were to express his deep devotion to his wife Rachel, and instill confidence and happiness in each of his children. Jared was a dreamer, a creator, and a representation of finding truth in a world that can be deceiving. He moved mountains with his intentions. He brought peace with the heart he wore on his sleeve. He had stars for eyes, warmth in his smile, and more kindness in his embrace than should be possible. To know Jared was to know true privilege.

Jared was preceded in death by his older brother, Adam. He leaves behind his wife Rachel, and his six children, Karianna, JD, Jordan, Sara, James, and Jackson. He is also survived by his parents Greg and Andrea, his siblings David and Aubrey, and a multitude of extended family, to include aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and more. While Jared is no longer with us in the physical world, his spirit remains to fill the difficult void of his absence. His family has great faith that they will be reunited with Jared one day in a celebration that is sure to include fireworks.

Funeral services for Jared will be held on Saturday, August 14, 2021 at the LDS Meetinghouse on 2101 N. Providence Drive. The viewing will begin at 10am, followed by the funeral at 11am; a YouTube link will be provided beforehand for those who cannot travel. In lieu of flowers, please visit the GoFundMe website to support the Lautenschlager family.