Veteran parandero, Tito Lara has died. He was 81.Relatives said Tito was on his way to “play a mark” on Blackforde Street, Cantaro Village in Santa Cruz, when he collapsed at the side of the road after mid-day yesterday. One of his daughters, Jennifer, said in telephone interview said he was seeking medical attention since last year and suffered with hypertension.

Jennifer said when the incident occurred, relatives made numerous calls to the police and ambulance but they took a long time to respond. Tito is survived by his wife, Ivy, five sons, two daughters and two step-children. When asked about the next step for the parang group, Jennifer said: “I can’t say but I am sure they will go ahead.” Tito and his brother, Willie, 79, were the lead paranderos of The Lara Brothers. Jennifer said her father will be remembered as a “very loving and pleasant man.”