Lawrence "Larry" Tantillo

Larry was born in The Bronx, NY on November 15, 1945, the first son of Enrico “Harry” Tantillo and Sylvia Tantillo. He was the adored big brother to siblings Anthony, Chris and Janice.

After spending several childhood years in North Miami Beach, FL., the Tantillo family returned to New York, where Larry attended Commack High School on Long Island. At age 18, Larry began working full time for his father’s towing and auto body company, “Carorama”, in The Bronx. It was here that Larry discovered what would become his lifelong passion, as he excelled in all aspects of the towing business. Larry displayed supreme skill as a tow truck driver; he had an intuitive sense of direction, a God-given GPS system in his brain, a tireless work ethic and a boundless desire to help those in need.

Larry married Joanie Capozzoli in 1969, and together they raised three sons; Christopher, James and John. In 1979, the family realized their own “California Dream” and relocated to Mission Viejo, along with the Braunstein family, comprised of Larry’s best friend Dave, Joanie’s sister Cookie and their children Lisa, Jason, Danielle and Regina.

After launching a catering business, SuperSnack, with Dave Braunstein, Larry eventually returned to his passion. He went on to form his own full-service towing company, which he christened "Lakeside," in a nod to the family home overlooking Lake Mission Viejo. After many successful years, Larry transitioned out of Lakeside, utilizing his expertise at West Coast Towing, as well as Extreme Towing in Irvine, where he joined up with lifelong friend Paul Blanco. In 1998, Larry met Teresa Sokol, who would become his loving and devoted companion for the remainder of his life. Larry endeared himself to Teresa’s children and grandchildren, and became an indelible part of her extended family.

Larry was known for his quick wit, his unique sense of humor and his love of a good cup of coffee. He was a mentor and father figure to countless members of his towing family. Larry will forever be remembered as a generous, dependable and loyal friend, as well as a beloved son, brother, uncle, father and grandfather.

Larry is survived by his longtime companion Teresa Sokol (and her children & grandchildren), siblings Anthony Tantillo (and daughter Melissa & her son Cooper), sister Janice D’Urso (and husband Anthony & daughters Erica & Danielle), his sons Christopher, James (and wife Linda & daughter Olivia) and John (and wife Megan) and two grandchildren, Leonardo & Rocco.

In remembrance of Larry, friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service on Friday, March 26th from 11:30am-1:00pm at Fairhaven Memorial Services 27856 Center Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92692. A graveside service will follow at El Toro Memorial Park 25751 Trabuco Rd., Lake Forest, CA 92630.