BROOMFIELD, Colo. – Larry Garland, founder and chief executive officer of Eldorado Trading Company, died Jan. 15. He was 66.

An admired and respected member of the pleasure products industry for more than 40 years, Garland passed away unexpectedly while attending an industry trade show in Burbank, California.

Garland founded Eldorado in his basement in 1974. Initially, the company traded in American Indian jewelry, later moving into head-shop accoutrement and finally segueing into adult pleasure products.

As the business prospered, becoming one of the world’s largest international distributors of pleasure and sexual wellness products and intimate apparel, Garland never forgot his humble roots. He established a number of charitable initiatives to benefit the underprivileged in Colorado and elsewhere.

Under Garland’s leadership, Eldorado won numerous awards. Garland himself was inducted into the AVN Hall of Fame and received the “O” Award for Lifetime Achievement. Three days before his death, he received an XBIZ Industry Pioneer Award.

Garland is survived by his wife Wanda, son Preston and daughter Shauna.

Eldorado and Garland’s family released a statement Monday afternoon:

Eldorado is deeply saddened to announce the sudden death of its founder and CEO, Larry Garland. Larry was a true icon in the industry and was recognized as an innovator. His legacy is apparent and evidenced by the immediate outpouring of support from the countless people whose lives he has touched.

The Eldorado family is devastated by this news, but is rallying together to preserve his legacy. We are dedicated to continue to service our customers and business partners to the standard Larry has set for over 40 years.

This is a tragic and sudden event. We ask that you respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time.

An email address has been established for those who wish to express their condolences: condolences@eldorado.net.

Update Jan. 18, 2017

From the Garland family: In lieu of flowers, the Garland family is accepting donations to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Community Food Share and Planned Parenthood. These three organizations were close to Larry’s heart. We appreciate and thank you for honoring Larry’s memory with your donation.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society
http://bit.ly/2jvjIpn

Community Food Share
http://bit.ly/2iGniZh
650 S. Taylor Ave.
Louisville, CO 80027
PHONE 303-652-3663
EMAIL: info@communityfoodshare.org

Planned Parenthood
http://bit.ly/StandwPPforLG