New Bedford Harbor Fireworks to Honor Four Beloved SouthCoast Men

On Friday, October 18 at 7 p.m., the skies above New Bedford Harbor will glow with a memorial fireworks display honoring four beloved SouthCoast men: Conrad Roy Sr., Lars Vinjerud Sr., Lars Vinjerud III and Daniel Faber.

Organized by Lars Vinjerud II, owner of Fathoms Waterfront Bar & Grille, Fleet Marina and Fisherman’s Market Seafood Outlet, the event is open to the public as a heartfelt tribute to family, friends and the loyal customers of these local businesses.

The fireworks, estimated to last about 20-30 minutes, will launch from a barge donated by Conrad Roy II, father of the late Conrad Roy III and son of Conrad Roy, Sr., one of the men being honored. The barge will be stationed near Popes Island, where attendees can watch from the docks of Fleet Marina or the decks of Fathoms and Fisherman’s Market.

Whether inside or outside, the waterfront offers the perfect vantage point for this meaningful first-time remembrance display.

Each of the men honored left a lasting mark on the SouthCoast community:

Conrad H. Roy, Sr., a Mattapoisett resident, passed away at 75 on October 18, 2023. A Navy veteran and founder of Tucker-Roy Marine Towing & Salvage, Conrad was known for his dedication to family and his love of the sea. He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.

Lars Vinjerud Sr., a well-respected local businessman who passed away in 2023, had long contributed to the community's growth and support.

Lars Vinjerud III, who died in 2021 at the age of 38, was remembered fondly by his family and friends.

His father held a memorial firework display back in October 2022:

Daniel Faber, who passed earlier this year at 72, was a skilled craftsman and designer behind iconic local spaces like Fairhaven’s Ice House (including The Harpoon Room and The Garage) and Fisherman’s Market Seafood Outlet inside Fathoms Restaurant. His influence can also be seen at The Bar on Middle (formerly The Ebb Tide), which he helped design.

The fireworks are a generous gesture by Lars Vinjerud II, who aims to both honor those who have passed and extend a heartfelt thank you to his loyal customers. As the weather is looking favorable, all are encouraged to gather at the waterfront to celebrate the lives and legacies of these men, who in one way or another shaped the fabric of the SouthCoast.