Obituary of Larry King Tibbetts

Larry King Tibbetts of Belfast, Maine died, surrounded by family and friends, at the Sussman House, following a brief illness. He was 67. Larry was born in the original Camden Hospital in Camden, Maine on December 22, 1950. In those days, new babies were kept in the nursery and not with their mothers, but the heating system broke down and Larry spent his first few days in bed with his mother. Every birthday she told him this story and said this was the best Christmas gift she ever received. Larry grew up in Camden, where he wandered the beach and woods and scoured the mountains, searching for crystals and treasure. He attended high school at Tabor Academy, and later graduated from Dartmouth College, where he majored in art and geology, his two great passions. He became a skilled carpenter, who could build anything from houses to fine furniture. He loved antiques, old houses, stones, and for many years traveled to Arizona for the annual gem show. Larry sat on the board of his family’s business, Tibbetts Industries, until it was sold in 2007. All of those who knew Larry, and there were so many, loved him for his fierce independence, brilliant mind and personality, passionate nature, and huge sense of humor. He was intrigued with history and what would come next in life. He died too young but he died with grace and no fear. When his sister asked if he believed in an afterlife, he flashed his Larry smile and said, “I’m waiting to find out.” Larry was predeceased by his mother and father, Joan Sawyer Tibbetts and George Tibbetts, and his beloved dog, TJ. He leaves behind his brother, Paul Tibbetts, sister and brother-in-law, Elizabeth Tibbetts and Jim Guerra, nephew and wife, Zachary Morong and Aileen Park, and his great-nephews Avery and Ewan Park-Morong, and a great-niece, Lilia Park-Morong, his aunts and uncles, cousins, and his loving friends. Warmest thanks go to his dear friend, Jennifer Pierce, who provided love and wisdom through this difficult time. Thanks also go to Maine Medical Center for their professional care, and to the Sussman House staff for the comfort and support provided to Larry and his family. A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at the Waldo County Shrine Club, 20 Northport Avenue, Belfast Maine, on Saturday, May 19th, at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sussman House or to an animal rescue.