Remembering Tom Laban: A Legacy of Service and Kindness
Los Angeles, CA – The city of Los Angeles mourns the loss of one of its most beloved figures, Tom Laban, affectionately known as "Mr. Los Angeles." Born on October 6, 1953, in Silver Lake, Laban dedicated his life to public service and left an indelible mark on the community. He passed away at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Laban was a distinguished councilman whose contributions spanned numerous fields, including the arts, recreation, sports, public libraries, health services, and initiatives for senior citizens. His commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Los Angeles made him a respected leader among his peers and a trusted advocate for the residents he served.
Throughout his political career, Laban was known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His warm demeanor and genuine care for the community earned him the affection of many, and his passion for public service inspired countless others to engage in civic activities. From championing arts programs that nurtured local talent to advocating for improved health services, Laban was a tireless worker whose impact will resonate for generations.
In addition to his political endeavors, Laban had a remarkable connection with the entertainment industry, particularly with the cast of the long-running soap opera, The Young and the Restless. Upon hearing the news of his passing, actor Eric Braeden, who portrays Victor Newman on the show, took to Twitter to pay tribute to his dear friend. In a heartfelt post, Braeden shared a touching photo of himself with Laban, reminiscing about their memorable times together on set.
"My dear friend, longtime L.A. councilman Tom Laban, passed away last night," Braeden wrote. "Tom was one of the kindest individuals in public service, and he dedicated himself to our city with immense passion for many years. He was also a cherished friend of our show. This news has profoundly affected us."
Braeden also shared a video clip from a special moment when Laban honored him during his 40th anniversary with The Young and the Restless. In true Tom fashion, he presented Braeden with a loaf of pumpkin bread made by local nuns—an example of the thoughtful gestures that defined his interactions with others.
Laban's personal life was equally rich. He is survived by his loving wife, Bridget Manning Laban, with whom he shared 32 years of marriage, and their two children, daughter Mary Kate and son Charles. The family is comforted by the outpouring of love and support from the community, reflecting the profound impact Laban had on those around him.
As tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, friends, and constituents, it is clear that Tom Laban's legacy will endure. His dedication to public service and his compassionate spirit have left an indelible mark on the city of Los Angeles.
The community remembers him not just as a councilman, but as a true friend, a passionate advocate, and a man who genuinely cared about the well-being of others. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Tom's family, friends, and everyone who knew and admired him.
In the words of Eric Braeden, “We will miss you, Tom. Thank you for everything.”
As we reflect on Laban's remarkable life and achievements, let us honor his memory by continuing to support the initiatives he championed and by serving our community with the same kindness and dedication he exemplified throughout his life.