On October 10, 2026, our ʻohana experienced the heartbreaking loss of Larry Bertlemann, our dad. To the surfing world, Larry was known as a legend, a pioneer, and a man who changed the way people rode waves. His unique style, creativity, and fearless spirit inspired generations of surfers around the world. But to his family, he was simply Dad. Behind the fame, the photographs, the magazine covers, and the stories was a man who lived a life filled with both incredible accomplishments and personal struggles. Like so many others, Larry faced difficult seasons in life, especially when his health began to decline and he could no longer do what he loved most: surf.

As the Bertlemann ʻohana navigates this difficult time, they are humbly reaching out to family, friends, the surfing community, and anyone whose life was touched by Larry. This fundraiser will help cover his funeral and memorial arrangements and give him a beautiful farewell that honors the life he lived. The family was not fully prepared for the financial responsibilities that come with losing someone they love, and any contribution, no matter how big or small, would mean so much. If donating is not possible, sharing this fundraiser, keeping the ʻohana in your prayers, or simply sharing a memory of Larry is just as meaningful. Larry gave the world a style of surfing that will never be forgotten. Now, as his children, the family simply wants to give him the love, dignity, and farewell he deserves.

From the bottom of our hearts, mahalo for loving our dad, for remembering him, and for helping us carry his legacy forward. With love and gratitude, The Bertlemann ʻOhana