Monroe, NH-  Larry Paul "Garfield" Cate, 59, who, from the beginning of his life, right up to the final weeks of his life, was the life of the party.

Larry's party started on December 11, 1956 in Massena, NY, where he was born. Larry's family moved to Monroe, NH in 1971.  He participated in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts during his time in Monroe.  He attended and graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1976.  Larry married his high school sweetheart in 1981 with whom he had two children.

Larry was known as a hard-working, generous man who was always willing to lend a hand to his friends, family, and strangers, alike.

Larry worked as a heavy equipment operator his whole life.  He passionately loved fixing and driving his big Mack trucks, snowmobiling, driving his restored 1957 Chevy and taking motorcycle rides with his constant canine companion, Juniper, perched on the gas tank between his legs.

Larry's main talent was his jokes and story-telling (and those stories were never short).  Once at his uncle's funeral, Larry had the entire room roaring in laughter, recalling family stories and telling colorful jokes.  Larry's other passions were animals, photography, fixing and building things and music.  He will be fondly remembered for his extensive knowledge and love for rock and roll.

Larry loved his family and was very devoted to helping take care of them.  He will be greatly missed, but forever remembered for his colorful, vibrant personality and joy for life by family and friends.

Larry passed peacefully at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH on September 12, 2016, after a courageous battle against heart failure.

Larry is survived by his parents, Joyce and Duane Cate; his daughter, Melissa Cate; his son, Gordon Cate; a brother, Dennis Cate and wife Selena; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Snoodle.

At Larry's request, no funeral services will be held.