On October 10, stylemaster Larry Bertlemann passed away, leaving behind a legacy (read our obituary)—and a family now facing the costs of laying him to rest.
Bertlemann changed the way generations of surfers approached a wave, his fluid, inventive style helping redefine what was possible on a surfboard. His influence extended well beyond surfing, too, reaching into skateboarding and the broader culture of board sports. Now, his family is asking that same community for a little help sending him off.
The Bertlemann ʻohana has established a GoFundMe campaign with a modest goal of $12,000 to cover funeral and memorial arrangements.
Related: Innovative Hawaiian Surf Legend Larry Bertlemann Dies at 71
“To the surfing world,” the family writes on the fundraising page, “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.”
“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,” the message continues. “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,” the family concludes, “mahalo for loving our dad, for remembering him, and for helping us carry his legacy forward. With love and gratitude, The Bertlemann ʻOhana.”
Related: The Sting: How Ben Aipa’s Radical Design Changed Surfing Forever
If Bertlemann’s surfing ever made you look at a wave—or a surfboard—in a different way, consider contributing to the family’s fundraiser or sharing it with someone who might. He gave the surfing world an awful lot. Now it’s our turn to give a little back.
Learn more and make contributions through the GoFundMe campaign page Honoring Larry Bertlemann’s Legacy.
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