CANOGA PARK, Calif. — The Free Speech Coalition tonight said it mourned the passing of Larry Garland, founder of the Eldorado Trading Co. and a past president and current vice president of the Free Speech Coalition board of directors.
Garland founded Eldorado Trading Co. in 1974 as a distribution company for Native American jewelry, later becoming a leader in the sexual wellness and pleasure product market.
He received numerous awards for his achievements in the industry, including just last week when he was presented with the Pioneer Award at the 2017 XBIZ Awards.
“Larry Garland was a longstanding member of the FSC board of directors, a committed industry leader, and a kind and caring person,” said Eric Paul Leue, executive director of the Free Speech Coalition, “He had a witty sense of humor and a beautifully optimistic take on life. His passing leaves us with great sadness. We offer our condolences to his family, loved ones, and his colleagues at Eldorado Trading. Rest in peace, Larry. You will be missed.”
Tim Valenti, the current president of the board, said: “I could not have been prouder to serve with him on the board. I knew him as a kind and generous man who gave so much of his time and effort to help make this community. He will be sorely missed.”
“He was an exemplar, both as a businessman and friend,” said Jeffrey Douglas, the FSC’s board chair. “Everyone who had been at his place of business, and seen both the efficiency he created, and the loyalty he inspired in all of his workers could not fail to be impressed. His dedication to people was reflected in how he ran his business, how he conducted his relationships, as well as his dedication to the FSC.
“He served for years both as a director and an officer. He is irreplaceable both as a colleague and a friend. Our hearts go out to his family, coworkers, and colleagues.”
Lynn Swanson of Classic Erotica, who served with Garland on the FSC board for more than 10 years, said: “We have been through so much together — so many good times and so many not so good times. He was such a genuinely good person, I will sorely miss one of my dearest friends.”
