Dr. Tom Larwood, a pioneer of the Valley Fever Movement died Tuesday.

Larwood became a staple in Valley Fever research working closely with the late Dr. Hans Einstein to find a cure for the infection.

His death comes as a surprise to many who knew him after his appearance at the Valley Fever Awareness Walk last month.

Larwood passed away at the age of 90, with his wife beside him at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital.