Obituary
The paddle out and spreading of ashes for Carl LaFazio will be held July 13th 2024 beginning at 12:00pm. The location will be Pebble Beach in Crescent City CA. Taking Washington Blvd toward the airport, turn left on Pebble Beach Drive. Continue on Pebble Beach drive until the 3rd turnout. There will be event signs/makers leading to the location. Thank you to all who plan to attend this day in remembrance of Carl LaFazio.
Carl lived his life with an infectious joy that touched everyone he met. Carl was proceeded in death by his Mother Karen LaFazio and Brother-in-law Tim Brownlow. Carl is survived by his life partner, Cheryl Sea Rafferty. As well as his daughter, Leah (Brian) Chaucer and Grandson Luke Chaucer.
Carl loved Cheryl Sea, his daughter Leah and grandson Luke deeply. Carl and Cheryl Sea loved living together on the river with their animals Olias, Sleepy, Midnight and Precious.
Leah is left with many fond memories of Carl. She enjoyed her time with him and will never forget his gentle spirit. Remembering most of all his kindness as well as his funny nature.
Luke has many memories of his grandpa Carl. Luke enjoyed times at the beach, parks and just visiting with each other. Luke also got to enjoy many times of hearing about his surfing adventures and experiences. What most stands out to Luke was Carl’s compassion and love for others.
Carl was the beloved brother of Leonard (Sue) LaFazio, Ardie (Tim) Brownlow, Rick (Mary) LaFazio and Gary (Cindy) LaFazio. Each of his siblings held a special place in his heart. Carl treasured his relationships with his siblings and their spouses immensely. The love was mutual as each one of them valued Carl deeply as well.
He was a cherished Uncle to Nick (Kacia) LaFazio, Jeremy (DeVen) LaFazio, Benjamin (Sonja) LaFazio, Miranda (Chad) Fugate, Kassi Brownlow, Brent (Myriah) LaFazio, Jenna (Dexter) Lawson, Coleman LaFazio, Kyle LaFazio, Samantha LaFazio, and Wayne LaFazio. Many of them fondly referring to him as “Uncle Caca”. He took time to create individual relationships with his nieces and nephews. He found great joy in each of them.
Carl was also a great-uncle to numerous great-nieces and nephews whom he loved and enjoyed greatly.
Carl held a deeply connected bond with His Uncle Andy and Aunt Kay LaFazio. They were instrumental in his life.
Carl loved his family. Always attending family gatherings with the Restad and LaFazio families. At these gatherings he was able to see his numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Many in the family recall the frequent times over the years that he would just stop by for a visit or call to catch up. His family was an exceptionally valuable part of his life. He will be extremely missed.
In his professional life, Carl began his career as a commercial fisherman. He spent decades in this position. Through this work he was able to make numerous friends and connections in the county.
He later joined the parks service. Most recently, Carl worked as a flagger in Del Norte County for T&S DVBE Inc. out of Anderson, Ca. Carl’s employment opportunities allowed him to be outdoors, which was enjoyable for him.
Carl was an avid surfer. Starting at age 13, the beach quickly became Carl’s favorite place to be. Anyone who knew him knew that surfing and his love for the sport were at the very core of who Carl was. Carl, Cheryl Sea and Sleepy, their dog, spent many mornings traveling to surf spots in the dark and checking out waves as the sun began to rise. The ritual, them walking down the beach, the magic, Carl catching the epic ride alone or with buddies, Cheryl Sea and Sleepy watching the soulful surf experience.
Carl was incredibly talented and skilled in surfing. The stories that can be shared of “Fuzzy” on the water are innumerous within those who know him. Surfing and the ocean were “home” for Carl. Carl's surfing life was defined by his skill, adventurous spirit, and unmatched natural talent.
Carl's life was characterized by his loving nature, his sense of humor, and his gentle spirit. His laughter was infectious, as well as his kindness. His generosity was admirable. He loved others deeply. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who both knew and loved him.
Carl David LaFazio leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A celebration of life will be held at the Elk Valley Rancheria Administration Building, 2332 Howland Hill Rd. Crescent City, Ca on Sunday, September 24th from 12:30p.m.-2:30p.m. with a paddle out at 5:00p.m. on Pebble Beach.