Quiet, somber sobs and loud laughter filled the Crystal Ballroom at The Venue as the community came to say goodbye to Brett Tannenbaum. He died July 30 after a five-decade battle with diabetes and the health complications that accompany the disease. He was 57.

A longtime member of the community, he may be best known in South Florida for creating The Manor/The Venue, as well as The Colosseum.

Standing next to the coffin, a rabbi began the service with reflections on Tannenbaum’s life; his love of family, friends, and gambling trips to the Bahamas. (Crystal Ballroom was named after his favorite Bahamian casino.)

Family reminisced about trips, spending time together, and how Tannenbaum made special events even more special. Business associates talked about how they became dear friends. Even stories that featured conflict and shouting always ended with a hug and love.

While he finally succumbed to his illnesses, Tannenbaum had kept death at bay for decades. His diabetes diagnosis at the age of 7 meant he wasn’t expected to live until 30. He lost an arm, became legally blind, once fell into a diabetic coma while alone on a boat, and suffered multiple heart attacks. Each time he came back. Tannenbaum didn’t wait to die, but rather lived until death.

He is survived by Roby Tannenbaum, his husband of 22 years, and his brothers, Ross and Eric.

Friends took to social media to express their grief, love, and appreciation.

“In business you were a mastermind, with a sixth sense that was undeniably always right,” Gary Santis wrote. “As a friend, you were always there whenever I needed anything of any kind, I will always remember your generous actions.”

“He was an amazing, loving man who cared about everyone,” Mike Sipe said. “I will miss you and cherish our relationship forever, love you and Godspeed.”

One wrote that it “was a privilege to have known him,” and another called him “the most selfless amazing man.” Hundreds of similar tributes flooded local discussion groups. Even if you didn’t know him personally, after reading the loving comments, you feel as if you knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking donations be made to Kids In Distress, one of his favorite organizations.