Lawrence Edward Alton

Larry was the first baby born in the state of Kansas, on New Year’s Day 1960 of the late Jay and Carmena Alton. He always liked to joke about ‘the whole world shooting off fireworks for his birthday’ every year. And while that may not be necessarily true, he touched the lives of a great number of people and animals alike, and that is certainly worth celebrating. He had a wonderful childhood full of memories including camping every year with his family. One moment stood out as being particularly special, riding his bike up and down Dinosaur Mountain in Rapid City, South Dakota…this is where his love for cycling began. The hobby evolved and became one of his favorite pastimes, later pedaling up the mountains in Colorado on a 500 mile trek with his dearest friends, as well as participating in a number of charitable races.

A talented engineer, a lover of spicy hot sauce, ice cold IPA and great music, Larry was a gifted guitar player and enjoyed teaching others. He passed this musical talent along to his son John, who will continue to play in his honor and share this passion with Larry’s grandson Saul Edward.

The quality that Larry was most recently known for, was his infinite capacity for compassion and empathy towards animals. He had a soft spot for disabled, blind or ill dogs, especially the ones that no one else would take a chance on. He would take the challenge head on and provide them with the opportunity to thrive. He did this time and time again until the number soared over 200+ animals saved, rescued, rehabbed and in their forever homes. There’s no doubt that there will be a lot of wagging tails to greet him on the other side.

Larry always said, "The day you quit laughing it’s over" and that rang true throughout his year and a half long battle with pancreatic cancer. To be strong, collected, infinitely positive and still crack jokes throughout the biggest struggle of one’s life is a special gift. Cancer never defined him, he wouldn’t let it, and he spoke of just how grateful he was for all the time he had.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Larry’s favorite rescue organizations in his honor.

Texas Sled Dog Rescue: https://www.texassleddogrescue.org/

Second Chance Farm http://www.secondchancefarmgranbury.org/

Tiny Paws https://tinypawsrescue.com/

Texas Animal Society https://www.texasanimalsociety.org/