Condolence: Larry's last post to the Mind, Culture and Activity interactive forum, where I got to know him, was Sept 13 of 2017, about six weeks before he died. Maybe Larry was bitten with the urgency Lev Vygotsky, the patron saint of the forum, felt at the end of his life. Re-reading some of the extended dialogs, I see in my mind’s eye Larry feverishly finding and suggesting connections of potential between us turn-takers.Reading the goodbye from his daughter Sarah Dawn was heartbreaking but so wonderful. Larry was all kindness and curiosity.

Condolence: es, I will attend Larry's celebration of life with great sadness but with gratitude that this fine man walked our earth. My husband would like to come as well as he knew how much Larry meant to me and the Carleton School community. Our condolences and sympathy to you Cathy and Serena and all family members. He was such a great man. It was an honour to know him. Barbara Van Hee

Condolence: Hello Cathy- I am very sad to hear the news of Larry’s passing. We went out for a beautiful lunch this summer and I so enjoyed my time with him. He spoke of you and his daughter and granddaughter and his immense love and pride of his family. Larry’s love and respect for the students he worked with was well-known amongst our group. I would often say to Larry that I was in awe of his intelligence. His passion for so many topics was so stimulating. I do look forward to hearing the beautiful stories that will be shared about your sweet husband on Jan. 20th. I will miss him. My thoughts, Carol Zrymiak

Condolence: Dear Cathy and family, My heart goes out to you and your family at such a difficult time. Larry was such a wonderful man whom we will never forget. I count it a privilege to join with you and your family in celebrating his remarkable life on January 20. Love and prayers, Esther Yoshida. (primary teacher at Carleton

Condolence: Cathy, I am saddened to hear of Larry's passing. He was one of those people that mentored me in my early years when I was at Cook Elementary and later Killarney Secondary. I fondly remember the articulation meetings at Carleton school. Larry always worked with some of the most complex kids and always with kindness and a smile. He was an incredible advocate for kids and I will always remember that. Again, I am so sorry for your loss and to hear of Larry's passing. Nancy Kartsonas

Condolence: Thank you for your note to Cathy (and me) about losing Larry to this life. Cathy expressed how Larry's family was heartbroken by his passing...that touched the deepest part of my feelings to about losing Larry. Devastating is how Samir, whom you know, also expressed Larry passing. I had heard from Cathy that Larry was in hospice care the weekend before last, I had hoped to see him, but it wasn't possible at that point. The next day I flew to Barcelona for a week...a very long way, but I love Barcelona. I felt the loss of Larry during that week away, and I have to say that it was also a gift to breathe in deeply the mortality of us all, and Larry has gone ahead now...I feel sad I didn't spend more time with him in these last months...Larry was a gem, that's how I always described him to others...I will miss him greatly...but hold his spirit and philosophical perspective close...he had a unique and amazing capacity for understanding and a generosity of soul...he is irreplaceable. I hope you're well...let me know how you are, Sadly, Kit

Condolence: Dearest Cathy and Christopher, I am very sad to hear the news of Larry s passing. He was a very kind spirit and a powerful mind. I have enjoyed every conversation we held with him and you, Christopher, over email, and I found myself very many times going back to them, as a way to think through issues important to me / to us. I don t have very many words to express my sorrow. I would like (if I am able) draw and write something that can be part of the celebration of his life in January. I am aware January was the month of his birthday as well. I am sending you both a big, big hug and much love. Abrazos, as we say here. Ana Inés from Argentina

Condolence: Hi Cathy and family My condolences to all of you on the passing of the beloved Larry. I worked with Larry my whole career at Carleton, starting in 1989. He was such a wonderful colleague and loved that school so much. It was a huge loss to us when he retired. We weren't able to give him a large send off as we were in the middle of a strike, but a large group of us did get together to honour him and Sara, who was also retiring. He was always available to bounce ideas off of and gave great advice when dealing with challenging students. I know that he was so proud of his daughter and was looking forward to spending time with you on Mayne Island. My heart goes out to you. Larry will not be forgotten. best wishes Karin

Condolence: Cathy, My name is Dianne Rice and I was part of Larry’s Family Systems Group that got together a few times a year. Maybe you remember meeting us all on Face Time in Judith Snider's kitchen earlier this year. We all so enjoyed that Face Time visit with Larry, and at that time I recall thinking that he was the most positive, upbeat and optimistic cancer patient I had known. As I’m sure the others have told you, he was such an inspiration and always challenged us with knowledge he’d gained from the latest books he’d read and from the knowledge he'd acquired from his past learnings. He was a mentor for sure and for me, that will be his legacy. Larry was a gentle man and a gentleman, a caring colleague and counsellor, an all-around wonderful man. It was obvious how much he loved his family. I just wanted you to know what an honour it has been for me to know Larry and to be his colleague and most importantly a friend. I will definitely be at the Celebration of Larry’s Life on January 20/18. I look forward to meeting you, Cathy, in person, and I extend my deepest sympathy to you and to your family. Sincerely, Dianne

Condolence: Dear Cathy, I am deeply saddened by this news. I worked with Larry at Carleton. I don't have the words to express how sorry I am to hear this news. I know Larry always had the appropriate words and wisdom for everyone!!! He was a beautiful, gracious, kind, intelligent and gentle soul. He is loved and will be forever missed. I will be at Larry's memorial. Thank you for inviting me. Take care. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time xo Janice Sokukawa

Condolence: Larry’s Returning Larry’s returning To the Silence that bristles with life His gentle voice Always enquiring With extraordinary stamina and delicacy Loving the meaning It found in the depth of words Unexplored by most Longing for belonging But not to belong To superficial coherences unready to accept The need for learning He held in such store And passed on to others Asking for more This voice won’t be missed It will ever more be hear Fresh in our memories Calling each and all of us Into speaking out from our love and fear

Condolence: Cathy, Words cannot express how heartbroken I am to learn of Larry's passing. I worked with him at Carleton and remember him as one of the anchors that held the staff together. He was truly one of the best people I ever knew, smart, kind, caring, dedicated and so much more. I will never, ever forget how supportive of me he was when my first husband passed away. I am going to try my best to get to his service in January. Unfortunately that timeframe coincides with a very busy work time of year for me but I am going to try to free up a couple of days so I can make the trip. The world is a lot poorer now that Larry is gone. Please pass my condolences to the rest of your family. Elaine Baker (formerly Elaine Chapman)

Condolence: Hello Cathy, My name is Suzanne Holden and I had the pleasure of working with Larry for more than 15 years at Carleton. As I`m sure you already know, Larry meant so much to the Carleton staff, and was such a thoughtful, caring human being. Not only was he always there to support our students, he also took the time to listen and support staff members during times of need. I will definitely attend the service on the 20th to celebrate and remember a wonderful man. My heart goes out to you and your family. My deepest sympathy, Suzanne Holden

Condolence: Dear Cathy - (I hope you will not mind me addressing you by your first name) - I am an elementary counsellor working in Vancouver and both knew and was mentored (unofficially) by your dear Larry. I am so sorry to hear of his death, so soon after his retirement. I have waited until now to write this note to you and to your family, as sometimes, at a time of bereavement, all the letters of condolence come at one time. Sometimes a note that arrives a bit later reminds the family that the one they love and loved is far from forgotten in the minds and hearts of friends and collegues. So many of us will continue to think about and be grateful for Larry for many, many years to come. Few people so generously, courageously and energetically share their passion for 'the work': supporting the emotional life of children and families in schools. At our monthly meetings, Larry's voice could always be heard challenging our academic theoretical hypotheses, engaging and provoking deeper thought and reflection, and demanding through consistent kindness that work of school counsellors was a role of privilege, to honour, cherish and celebrate as a job like no other. Larry's earnest devotion for quality relationship between children and adults and his out-spoken and dedicated desire for us to be the best counsellors we could be inspired all in the room to check any excuses they had at the door. He did this consistently with good humour, an engaging smile, and always a willingness to give extra time to topics of import when the official meeting ended. Larry was certainly one of the most well-read individuals I have ever met. I was always amazed at his depth of learning, and comprehension and the 'cutting edge' nature of the topics he explored and shared with our group. He brought so much academic and theoretically relevent information to our conversations - even folk who may have been disinterested in the specifics became activated by his enthusiasm, passion and curiosity. Like a magnet, he engaged people - drew them into analysis and reflection upon their work in the world and its value. I'm sure he never met a book or a research article he didn't like! He could synthesize/summary some of the most complicated topics into a few paragraphs and simultaneously challenge us to re-think our lens. He spoke so highly of you, Cathy, your family, and of your dear granddaughter. I remember many conversations when he literally 'glowed' describing his deeply caring connection with her. The healthy emotional attachment between the two of them was such a gift to him - as counsellors we see so many children with difficult stories and broken attachments - the affirmation and witness of one's own grandchild making her way in the world with joy and grace - caused him great delight, and, I think, reminded him that his career path had helped to bring that repair in attachment to so many families and children. She re-affirmed his purpose, if he ever held doubt in his choice of career. I shall bring the note to a close now, though I could easily write for another other hour or so. It seems non-traditional for me to write this via email, as my practise would be a hand - penned note. I trust you will forgive me. I would very much like to attend Larry's memorial on January 20, and would ask that you include my name in those indicating a desire to attend. Much of my early 'shaping' as a new area counsellor is due to Larry's wisdom, and his generosity based in his many years of experience in this field. At a provincial meeting of school counsellors some years ago, I was able to share some information I learned from Larry with the entire group of several hundred gathered folk. I was certain to name him and give him credit - thus his experience and insight was spread, with gratitude, to school counsellors across B.C. I cannot think of a greater tribute to his determined desire to support children and families and school counsellors. Please accept my deepest condolences at Larry's passing. I am so very glad his last years were spent cocooned within the love of your family. Respectfully, Heather Main

Condolence: I don't remember when I first met Larry, it seems that I have known him all my educational career. Whenever I saw him, it was a treat. He was a remarkable man with so many wonderful qualities. I loved his intellectual abilities, his interesting and thought provoking conversations, his questioning spirit, curiousity and openness but what I appreciated most, and will hold most dear, was his kindness and warmth. My condolences to you, Cathy and to his family who he so loved. I will see you in January.

Condolence: Cathy and Family, I was so very sad to receive your notice of Larry's passing. My sincere condolences to you and your family. I first met Larry in the late 70's on the Sunshine Coast when he was working at the Wilson Creek Family Centre I believe it was, and I was teaching at the Gibson's Alternate School. To subsequently work with Larry as an Area Counsellor for the Vancouver School Board was a gift. Our connection continued after we had both retired through our meetings two or three times a year with our small group of curious and like-minded students of family systems and human behaviour; a group which Larry always contributed so much to with his deep reflections and powerful insights of our lived experiences. His love for family and friends, the courage and amazingly good humour with which he faced his illness, and his candor and ability to continue to be so intellectually curious and emotionally present is something I'll never forget and have hopefully learned from. I will be attending his Celebration of Life on January 20, 2018

Condolence: Dear Cathy, Your message brought tears and deep feelings of grief. I join you in mourning Larry's death. He and I were close in several heartfelt ways, some of which I have shared with you. I am on a trip with my wife now, and we are staying with good friends in Asheville, NC. When I opened up my email messages and saw this from you, I knew what news I was likely to be reading. In my first moments of feeling our loss -- a loss that you and family feel so strongly (beyond words to convey) -- through my tears I shared a bit of mine and Larry's story with a good ministerial colleague of mine (Jeff) ho now lives here. Jeff entered into not only my story of meeting and staying in dialogue with Larry for several years. Jeff also received my loss and was with me in this moment (as was my wife, Jean). It is odd to feel this loss for someone whom I had only related with by email. But, indeed, with Larry's gifts of deeply hearing other people, he had the ability to relate caringly from a distance. He had a gift of reflecting back to others more than their words. He could see the very soul presence of others, and he could mirror back nuances of feeling and the soft, even some mysterious, elements that dwell just beyond words and personalities. He was a truly unique soul, and he will remain with me as a soul companion. I hold you and your family in my heart especially during this time of mourning and loss. With a warm and caring heart, Roy PS. Two things: 1. I will share Larry's death with my colleagues in the NI Circle, but probably not until I get back from this trip. 2. I will follow up on coming weeks with some of the email exchanges between Larry and me/the NI Circle. If there's anything in particular you'd like, just let me know.

Condolence: Dear Cathy, My name is Dorothy Shaw and I was a resource teacher at Oppenheimer. I had the privilege of working with Larry for about 10 years leading up to his retirement. Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. My heart goes out to your family. Larry was one of the most wonderful people I have known, and I am devastated to hear of his passing. Larry had a profound impact on me as a mentor throughout the years that I knew him. I completed an MEd while at Oppenheimer, and Larry was my biggest cheerleader. I would go to class and relish the next day when I could talk to Larry about what I had learned…or rather what he could tell me about what I learned! If I hadn’t figured it out before, I certainly knew then what a brilliant mind Larry had. We would talk at length about Vygotsky, Attachment Theory, various philosophers and more, and he would help me put everything in context. He was so incredibly enthusiastic and passionate when we had those conversations and I know that was infectious for me, helping to propel my own excitement for my studies as I navigated through challenging coursework. What at first seemed like dry theory suddenly became meaningful and alive thanks to Larry. Larry’s insatiable taste for knowledge was known and respected by many at Oppenheimer. Whenever he found an article about something he was interested in, he would photocopy it for us. On it were sections that Larry underlined and starred, complete with notes all over the margins. He would bring it to us with glee and a sparkle in his eye. When my colleague and I would dutifully attempt to read these articles, often our eyes would glaze over, as we felt we needed a PhD to decipher what they said! We loved Larry though for those articles, and how they reflected his keen intellect and limitless curiosity. To this day I have my ‘Larry’ folder of articles. It reminds me of the importance of lifelong learning and asking questions, and will always been precious to me. I have worked with area counsellors before and since my time with Larry, and can say without hesitation that he was absolutely the best there was. He was gifted in every way. He always knew what to say in any challenging situation, be it with students, parents, or school personnel. His understanding of the school system and all its complexities was limitless. He could read and decipher medical reports and test results with all their jargon and determine what the most vulnerable children needed and how we could go about getting supports to help them. He worked with very troubled kids and they responded to him. He had a gentle and kind sprit, and people connected to him. Children and adults alike gravitated to him. I always knew that the days Larry was at Oppenheimer, would be good days. A calm day, where the needs of all the children were met. Where if an emergency occurred, which it often does in a school, everything would be okay, because Larry would know what to do. For me it was a feeling of complete confidence and trust in someone’s abilities. This was the power of Larry. Despite this though, Larry was humble. His presence was consistently quiet, sincere, contemplative and compassionate. We were all heartbroken when Larry announced that he was retiring. I knew though, what his family meant to him, and how much he was looking forward to spending more time with all of you. Cathy, Larry spoke about you often. We talked about your time living at UBC, and how you loved your lovely retreat on Mayne Island. He spoke about his daughter and what a wonderful teacher she was working in a very challenging school, her husband, and what loving parents they were to your beautiful granddaughter. Larry of course, was fascinated as he watched her learn and grow, and spoke at length about what he learned from her. I knew how adored he must have been as a doting grandfather. It was clear how much he loved his family, and how deeply you loved him. Larry was an incredibly generous man, and I feel honoured and so very fortunate to have been gifted the time I had with him. I still catch myself using his phrases and sharing the knowledge I learned from him with others, when I am in my role as educator. After he retired I left OPP to become a Faculty Associate at SFU before returning to the VSB. I saw Larry only a handful of times after that. The last time was for conversation and refreshments on a beautiful afternoon on a deck with a few other OPP alumni. As had been the case so many times before, I felt Larry’s warm and genuine curiosity as he asked me about my SFU position. His enthusiasm for my learning curve once again propped me up, despite the fact that I was feeling somewhat overwhelmed. He just had that knack. I greatly valued the time I spent with him that afternoon, as I didn’t know when I would be seeing him again. I didn’t know then that it would be the last time. Since then I did attempt to contact him via email but didn’t hear back. I was relieved when I heard from him at the end of May, and he told me had had lost my contact information. He asked me about my life, and we corresponded about our memories of all the meaningful conversations we had. He alluded to his illness but did not go into detail. I told him I hoped we could meet for a coffee or a meal. I think he must have been gravely ill by that point, and I didn’t hear back from him again. I hope Cathy that I haven’t shared too much. I lost my brother to cancer several years ago, and I know how painful it is to lose someone you love. But I wanted you to know how much joy he brought to me, and my deep regard for our friendship. Larry made a significant imprint on my life, as I’m sure he did for many others. He was just so incredibly special and I will miss him greatly. With warm regards, and much love to you and your family, Dorothy Shaw

Condolence: My uncle's thirst for knowledge was infectious and his passion as an Educator was inspiring to say the least. He always knew how to get you talking or insert a joke to break the ice which instantly put you as ease. You couldn't help but laugh because regardless if his joke was funny or not he believed it and his laughter said it all. No matter what the circumstance you immediately felt safe upon hearing his genuine laughter or his calm soothing voice. He always knew what to say. His compassionate heart radiated from him and carried over to the children he guided throughout his extension teaching career, but it was how he truly listened that made him so special. He listened to understand the emotions behind the context of the conversation to get to the root of whatever it was. He genuinely cared and it showed and flowed from him effortlessly and seamlessly without hesitation, it was just who he was. No matter who you were...he understood. He was without reservation an amazing positive role model and mentor but always a devoted family man. He and my Aunt Cathy have supported me during the most difficult times of my life and his love has taught me so much about relationships and myself which I will memorialize forever. ....Love you always

Condolence: Dear Purss Family, My heartfelt sympathies to your family on the loss of your beloved husband, father, grandfather, and so much more. I had the pleasure of being mentored by Larry when I began as new counsellors with the Vancouver School Board and will always cherish the influence he had on me and how it has impacted so many lives of my students, colleagues and parents over the years. For his I will be forever grateful. I would like to attend his celebration of life in January. Wishing you comfort, peace and love. Selma Smith

Condolence: Dear Cathy and Family, I am so sad to hear of Larry's passing. I have known Larry for over 30 years in our work for and with children and their families who were needing care in the Vancouver School system. He was one of the finest people I have ever worked with!! He gave everything he had to make life better for all of those he served. He worked so hard not only to help the students who were suffering, but also to change the system in ways that would make it more equitable. He was highly skilled as a counsellor and also as an advocate for his clients. He was a lovely man and will be greatly missed by me and the hundreds of people he touched with his kindness and his grace in his life. I will be attending his celebration of life. Warm regards, Larry Haberlin

Condolence: Hi Cathy, I am a retired teacher from Oppenheimer School who received guidance and support from Larry. He was such a positive influence to all the students and staff. Even though I haven’t met you, I feel like I have because Larry spoke so lovingly about you and your children. He’d tell me family stories such as switching homes with your daughter and shared his live of part time island living. I know he will be missed by his dear family and friends. I would be honoured to attend his celebration of life service on January 20. Sincerely, Janet Woron

Condolence: Dear Cathy, I’m so sad to hear of my dear friend Larry’s passing. I’ve known him since 1985 or was it even earlier when we were doing our counselling training in the UBC Counselling Psychology Program . He was such a kind, caring and honest friend. In more recent years he was part of our small group of retired and not so retired Vancouver School Board professionals committed to learning and growing and sharing that process with each other. We have continued to meet for many years and have been part of each other’s lives for a long time. Larry was so open about what he was going through and his many insights along the way. And when he physically was not well enough to be with us in person, he would participate on Skype. He was a very courageous man who wasn’t afraid of confronting whatever life presented to him. It sounds like Larry left this world exactly as he would have wished, surrounded by the people he loved most and with his humour and curiosity as well. I’ll miss him a lot. And he truly was an inspiration to me as well. My heart goes out to you and the family . He loved you all so much. Much love Judith Snider

Condolence: To you Larry, my brother and special correspondent. I can't pretend. I'm sad you've died. That I didn't write to you more. We shared a unique relationship. Having never met you in person and only knowing you through e-mail correspondence, it's a great testament to your spirit that I feel as though I am somehow with you right now, as you are me. Rest in peace my friend. To Larry's family: may peace be with you all. He always spoke of his family very fondly.