My name is Taylor Benatsou. My sister, Chloe Fazio, and I are organizing this GoFundMe to raise money for our stepfather, Larry Tyler’s Celebration of Life this Saturday, February 24th at the Boathouse restaurant in Lakeville, CT from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Everyone who knew Larry Tyler knew him to be a kind, gentle and generous soul. The last years of his life were difficult ones. Eight years of oesophageal cancer depleted his physical, mental and financial reserves. In addition to running a carpet and upholstery cleaning business while undergoing chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation, he also managed his mother’s finances and coordinated her round-the-clock care from the time she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s until a year before his own death.

The cumulative effect of his health struggles, financial struggles, business concerns and his mother’s care resulted in an additional problem, which was anxiety and depression. Happily, he underwent successful treatment for his depression and - in the final year of his life - experienced the joy of marrying his life-partner of 17 years, our mother, Tiela Garnett in an intimate ceremony in their all-time favorite location: Boothbay Harbor, Maine.

It is to reflect our appreciation of Larry and the impact he had on the lives of the many who knew him that we are hosting this celebration of his life. For those of you who - like us - knew and loved Larry Tyler, please consider helping us finance the event in the style he deserves! A heartfelt thanks to the many people who have spoken and written loving messages to us in the past weeks. Whether or not you choose to contribute to this campaign, please join us in celebrating the life of this exceptional human being!