8944-R1_MSA_January2025_Newsletter

A Legacy Forged in Snow: Remembering Larry Lafland T he snowmobiling com

ness of different parts of this organization. Larry was not driven by personal glory but by a genuine love for snowmobiling and a desire to make it better for everyone. This dedication was recognized in 2019 when he was deservedly named Maine Snowmobiler of the Year. Larry’s passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. He wasn’t someone who sought the limelight, yet his quiet leadership, his unwavering commitment, and his willingness to do the work made an enormous difference. He was the kind of person who makes an organization run smoothly by being reliable and dedicated. In remembering Larry, we are encouraged to honor him with the things he held dear: family, community, and the joy of snowmobiling. We are asked to cherish our time with family, to hold them close just as Larry did. We are prompted to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of classic vehicles, especially Fords, a reflection of another of his passions. And most importantly, we are asked to take a snowmobile ride this winter, to immerse ourselves in the peace of the outdoors and to appreciate the work he and countless others have put in to make trails a reality. For those who wish to honor Larry’s memory more tangibly, his family has requested that donations be made to the Maine Snow mobile Association Scholarship Fund, a fitting tribute to his commit ment to the future of the sport, or to a local snowmobile club. These gestures will help support the community he served.

munity of Maine, and indeed anyone who val ues dedication and quiet strength, feels the pro found loss of Larry Lafland. Larry passed away on December 8th, leaving behind a legacy woven into the very fabric of the

trails he loved and the organization he served. He was more than just a name; he was a pillar, a tireless worker, and a gentle soul whose impact will be felt for years to come. Larry was a man of action, not of grand pronouncements. He was, as described, a “quiet, hardworking person,” whose actions spoke far louder than any words. His life was centered around the love and care for his family: his wife Eileen, his children Shawn and Shelly, and his four grandchildren. For them, he was capable of “moving mountains,” a testament to his unwavering dedication. That same commitment extended to the community he embraced with passion: the snowmobiling world. For Larry, snowmobiling was more than a hobby; it was a neces sary escape, a way to “leave the grind of work behind.” But even in his pursuit of recreation, Larry’s work ethic and dedication shone through. He didn’t just ride the trails; he helped build them, maintain them, and improve them for everyone. He joined the Eastern Maine Snowmobile Club (EMSC) in 1988 and remained an active member until his passing. He served as their President and, at the time of his passing, was their Trail Master, tirelessly ensuring the club’s trails were safe and enjoyable. Larry’s commitment to snowmobiling didn’t stop at the local level. His desire to improve the experience extended to the entire state. He held numerous and significant roles within the Maine Snowmobile Association (MSA), demonstrating his comprehensive understand ing of the issues facing snowmobiling in Maine. He was a past Trails Chair, a past member of the Advisory Council and the Governor’s Landowner Task Force. At the time of his death, he was a vital mem ber of the Trails Committee, the Scholarship Committee, the Steer ing Committee, and held the position of Eastern Regional Director. His involvement across such a wide spectrum of the organization speaks to his dedication and understanding of the interconnected

Larry Lafland’s legacy tran scends mere words. It is etched in the snow-covered trails he helped create, in the countless hours of dedicated service he provided, and in the hearts of those who knew and respected him. He was a true friend to the community, a hardworking man of action, and a loving family member. While we mourn his passing, we can take comfort in knowing that his spirit will con tinue to guide the way for years to come. He was the kind of man that made things better, and he will be deeply missed.

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