In Loving Memory of Mary Lu “Meeka” Wear

A Beautiful Life, A Heartbreaking Loss, and a Community Coming Together

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the tragic passing of Mary Lu Wear, lovingly known as “Meeka,” who lost her life at the age of 86 on the evening of October 9, 2026.

At approximately 8:15 p.m., Meeka stepped outside her Apple Valley home to look after her beloved dog, Benji. In a heartbreaking accident, she was struck by a vehicle and tragically lost her life at the scene.

Meeka was a beloved mother of seven children, grandmother of four, and great-grandmother of nine. She was the heart of her family, a treasured friend to many, and a woman whose warmth, kindness, and love touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Throughout her life, Meeka built lasting friendships and meaningful connections in Apple Valley, Big Bear, and Fawnskin, California. She was loved by so many, and her sudden passing has left an unimaginable emptiness in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.

Even at 86 years young, Meeka continued to embrace life with enthusiasm and a wonderful sense of purpose. Most recently, she had been helping her daughter and granddaughter bring a special dream to life through the opening of the Buc N Doe Restaurant in Fawnskin. She was part of the heart and soul of this family endeavor, and her presence, encouragement, and love will forever be woven into its story.

What should have been another ordinary evening at home turned into an unimaginable tragedy. In a single moment, a family lost its beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a community lost a dear friend.

A Loving Request for Support

As Meeka’s family struggles to come to terms with this sudden and devastating loss, we are reaching out to our friends, neighbors, and the communities of Apple Valley, Big Bear, and Fawnskin for support.

We appreciate everyone's concern and kindness during this incredibly difficult time. However, we would like to respectfully clarify some misinformation regarding Meeka's GoFundMe.

First, we are fully aware that Meeka had already made arrangements and paid for her own cremation. The purpose of this fundraiser is not to cover those expenses, but rather to create a beautiful and lasting memorial honoring Meeka and her two beloved sons, Craig and Clark, who preceded her in death.

Our hope is to create a special angel memorial that will honor Meeka alongside her firstborn son, Craig, and her fourth-born son, Clark. We take comfort in believing that she is now reunited with both of them in heaven.

Perhaps most importantly, Meeka made her final wishes very clear. In the presence of several witnesses, she told her daughter Carole:

"If I die, cremate me and spread my ashes at the Buc N Doe."

Buc N Doe was a place close to her heart, where she spent time helping her daughter and granddaughter build something special. Honoring that wish and creating a meaningful tribute to her life is what this fundraiser is truly about.

No one is obligated to contribute. Every donation is entirely voluntary, and we are deeply grateful to those who have chosen to help.

Thank you to everyone who has shown our family compassion, kindness, and support. ❤️

Please consider making a donation or sharing this memorial fundraiser to help us celebrate Meeka’s life and give her the farewell she deserves. ❤️