Statement from the Office of the First Selectman Matt Knickerbocker On the Passing of Larry Craybas

First Selectman Matt Knickerbocker shares some heartfelt words the loss of dedicated community member, Larry Craybas

It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Mr. Lawrence Craybas, long-time Chairman of the Bethel Board of Education and community volunteer. Larry passed away in the early hours of April 6th following a long and courageous battle with multiple health challenges.

Larry became one of Bethel’s longest-serving school board members, having been first elected to his seat in 2007. He was named Chairman by his colleagues in 2010 and served in that capacity until health issues forced him to resign in March, 2019.

Larry was a man of tremendous integrity, and his leadership of the Board of Education was defined by cooperation, civility, dignity and bipartisanship. As a leader, he truly embodied the goal that board members should “leave politics at the door” and do their very best for all the people of Bethel. In Larry’s case, his primary goal was to ensure that every Bethel child was receiving the best education possible. He was truly a champion of the Town, of Bethel Public Schools and the children of Bethel.

Larry will be missed deeply by his community. We offer our most sincere condolences to the Craybas family.

*Image courtesy Bethel Public Schools