Lazarus W. "Larry" Chongarlides, the longtime Harbormaster for the City of New Bedford, died Wednesday March 25, 2015 at St. Luke's Hospital after a long illness at the age of 92.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Kosta and Helen (Procopidas) Chongarlides, he lived in New Bedford for most of his life. As a young child, he was hit by a truck on Acushnet Avenue and had his leg amputated. Despite many years of rehabilitation and the use of a prosthetic limb, Larry remained positive and overcame these obstacles to lead a very full and productive life.
Many years ago, Larry was employed at Morse Twist Drill, before becoming the chauffeur for Mayor Francis J. Lawler. He later worked for the Rodman Job Corps, before being appointed New Bedford Harbormaster, a position he loved and held for close to 50 years working through ten mayoral administrations.
He was a graduate of New Bedford High School, where he was the manager for the 1941 State Championship Football Team.
Survivors include his longtime companion, Anne M. Pontbriand; his nephew, John Kent; his Godson, John T. Saunders; his devoted caregiver, Odete Silva; and many good friends.
He was the brother of the late Katherine Kent and Ernest Chongarlides.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday at 11:30 AM in St. Julie Billiart Church, Dartmouth. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Fairhaven. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home For Funerals, 495 Park St. New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of New Bedford, 166 Jenney St., New Bedford, MA 02740. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.