Larry Gordon Crutchley

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Uncle Larry at the age of 78. He passed away peacefully and with dignity at Langley Memorial Hospital after a brief bout of pneumonia. Larry is predeceased by his parents, Ethelda and John (Jack), and his siblings, Lorne, Diane and Ron. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Ken Dunham, and his nieces and nephews, Shannon, Reanne, Reggie, Dorian, Danny and Samantha.

Larry was born in New Westminster during a time in our history where it was believed that people with disabilities were better off in institutions. Larry's Mom did the best she could for as long as she could before succumbing to the pressures of raising a child with extra challenges without the supports available today.

Thankfully she was strong enough to bring him home as Uncle Larry was an integral part of our lives and helped shape us all into the people we are today. Larry became a trailblazer in the field of disabilities. He was one of the original self advocates and took every opportunity to share his story and encourage others to be the best they could be. He sat on the board of directors and became a front runner in the self advocacy movement. Larry's genuine love and care for others was evident in every aspect of his life. If you knew Larry, you knew genuine love, acceptance and authenticity. We are all better people for having known him.

In his quiet time, Larry was an avid gardener and loved to travel. He was game for anything that involved spending time with the people he loved, especially if it involved burgers and beer! He would often be found gallivanting the neighborhood on his bike looking for anyone to have a conversation with. Larry also loved his old Country music and the Vancouver Canucks. One would be hard pressed to pull him away from a game. May he be stretching his wings and enjoying all the things he loved here on earth with loved ones who have gone before him.

Larry's family would like to extend a special thank you to his roommates and staff at Hunter Park and Inclusion Langley Society. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your exemplary care, support and advocacy. Thank you Barb, Brian and Natalie for your constant and open communication. Especially when Larry lost his words to advocate for himself. You really knew who he was and you always had his best interests at heart. Thank you for being his second family. We will forever be grateful.