Eighty years of family, laughter, and a good story

A life measured not simply by the miles traveled or the stories told, but by the people who always knew he would be there. Through every season, Larry has been the ready laugh, the quiet strength, and the spirit of adventure that turned experiences into memories and family into legacy.

Sing along

Let It Land

Verse 1

Pull up a chair, he's windin' up again,

the whole room leans in like they don't know how it ends.

Fifty years of that same slow grin,

Marge just shakes her head and lets him in.

He can turn a grocery run into gold,

funniest man in the room, and the man's eighty years old.

Pre-Chorus

You're laughin' at the setup, never see it comin',

then he leans on in, and drops it,

Chorus

'cause a story ain't a story till the last line lands,

and nobody on God's earth times it like this man.

Eighty years of setups, and here's what I understand,

he was teachin' us to hold on while we can.

Come on, Poppy, let it land.

Verse 2

Ask about Ken's very first paycheck,

"who in the world is FICA?" took a cut, no respect.

Switched every label on Thanksgiving Day,

Grandma's still lookin' for the stuffing to this day.

Crawled through the door like an old man in the dark,

scared Marge's mama half to death, and that's the spark.

Pre-Chorus

He'll have you cryin' laughin' in the hardest season,

finds the light in the dark, and that's the reason,

Chorus

'cause a story ain't a story till the last line lands,

and nobody on God's earth times it like this man.

Eighty years of setups, and here's what I understand,

he was teachin' us to hold on while we can.

Come on, Poppy, let it land.

Bridge

But under all that laughin' is a quieter kind,

a man who held his ground through every storm and every hard time.

Uniform young, then a life built out of wax and will,

Ken and Brian, and he's standin' by 'em still.

There for the first steps, there for the fall,

and Maddie and Sydney light up when they hear him called.

Turns out the funniest man that any of us knew

was teachin' us to stay, and to see each other through.

Final Chorus

So a story ain't a story till the last line lands,

and someday I'll miss the timing of this man.

But not today, today we raise a glass and stand,

eighty good years of holdin' on, as long as we can.

Outro

Happy birthday, Poppy. Let it land.

That same slow grin, one more time,

let it land.

On film

The Videos

The video messages are being finalized and will land here soon.

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A message from Ken

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A message from Brian

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A birthday message

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A moment for Larry

Moments

Photos

Marge & Larry

The Sons

The Grandchildren

On the Links

Service

The Working Years

Travels

Through the Years

Family & Friends

Shared by Family & Friends

In their own words

The Tributes

The letter from Ken

Dad, there are things a son understands when he is young. And others he can only understand after he has traveled far enough, struggled deeply enough, and lived long enough to become a father himself. I have always been driven to make my own way.

As you once told me, “Ken, one thing about you is that you never look back. You just keep going.” Sometimes that served me well. Sometimes it led me into trouble. That is the polite version. But the older I get, the more I understand what I could not see then.

No matter how far I traveled, how badly I lost my way, or how rough the water became, you were always there. You are the harbor of my life. You gave me room to leave shore, and whenever storms came, you remained.

You were there when I got into trouble, when college went wrong, through broken relationships, addiction, and the darkest periods of my mental health.

But you were also there for the firsts. My first car. My first job. My first home. Graduations. The birth of Maddie and Sydney. When life opened up, and when it seemed to close in. You came. You stood beside me. You stayed. No matter how often I tested your patience, I never found the boundary of your love. You built a life defined by duty, endurance, service, and devotion.

You served our country in the military. You rose from running the traffic department to running the company You faced adversity, saved your business, and carried responsibility quietly. Your strength has always been quiet, but your purpose has always been loud in my heart. You taught me about business, sales, managing money, tying a tie, and carry myself well.

You also tried to teach me golf....sorry dude, even you could not accomplish everything. But the lessons that mattered most stayed with me. You show me commitment through the way you love Mom. You stand beside her, make her laugh, support what she loves, and remain devoted after a lifetime together. You and Mom created a home people can turn to for guidance, support, or somewhere safe to land. You built that home for Brian and me.

Now you share it with others, including Maddie and Sydney. Some of my favorite memories are at the beach with you and the girls. Year after year, three generations together, carrying forward family, laughter, stories, and presence. What you built did not stop with your sons. It moves outward, like waves. Into our traditions. Into our stories. Into the way the girls know they are loved. Into the father I have become.

For much of my life, I thought strength was measured by how far a man could go on his own. At 51, I understand it differently. Strength is being the person who stays steady when the water changes. The person others can return to. The person whose presence makes those he loves feel protected, accepted, and never alone. The older I get, the more I understand what it means that you are always there. And the more I understand you, the prouder I am to be your son. The man I am, the father I have become, and the life I have built all carry pieces of you.

Happy 80th birthday, Dad.

Happy 80th birthday, Dad. Love, Ken.

The letter from Brian

We share more than just great looks. The life and love you have shared with mom is unmatched. Teaching me dedication, understanding, compromise, and partnership are essential in relationships.

There are too many experiences to mention them all, so here are a few.

Golf extravaganzas, including the 54 holes in one day.

Four top 10 finishes in the father and son tournaments.

Win or lose, it didn't matter.

Every time was amazing.

Our most exciting golf experience in the birthplace of the sport, to walk the old course and play a round of golf along the North Sea. So many big events, but every Saturday round, it's just as meaningful when I get to share it with you. I fondly remember every visit as a kid to Old Yankee Stadium. The day we took the stadium tour together, walked on the field, and sat in the dugout, and all the games at the new stadium we've enjoyed together.

The many years we bowled together, we are a pretty good team, though we weren't as dedicated as Joe, who told us he practiced at home by bowling into his couch. I still smile and laugh every time I think about what his couch must have looked like.

We have had many trips together exploring history, like the Freedom Trail in Boston, the Air and Space in DC, our trip to Gettysburg, more recently together in Scotland, the castles, palaces, and cathedrals, and the Queen's Yacht. History has always connected us.

Pepper loved you most. Sharing leftover breakfast milk probably helped that. And Honey loved you even more. Tracy and my pets through the years have always loved you. They say animals can tell the goodness of the soul of a person, and based on that idea, the jury has come in positive for you.

We spent many days jumping the waves, dodging the jellyfish. That day a paddleboard through the monsoon, dinner at Men's, and a night on the boardwalk in Bobby D's Arcade. The beach was home and a place that brought our family together.

Looking back, I know there were struggles, but Ken and I never saw them. We only saw the love and the life you worked so hard to give us. You taught us independence, from painting a red fence on Stone Road to doing my own laundry, learning to cook and take care of the house. You were always by our sides.

On my court date for my first feeding ticket, I remembered the other guy in court who had a car full of stolen radios. He stood alone, claimed to the judge that the charges were no good because none of the stuff was his. He was there for a serious offense and stood alone. I was there for a simple one, but you stood by my side.

Through it all, you provided guidance, support, and love. That has shaped my life. As we celebrate your 80 years, just know my 48 years have been as wonderful as they are because of you and mom. What a journey.

Your life is full because it's grounded in love, family, and friends. And this has been a look at it through the eyes of a son. You are an incredible person, pretty darn good golfer, knowledgeable about lots of things, but most important, you are dad.

Happy 80th birthday to many more adventures we'll share together. I'm so excited to the years ahead.

Your son, Brian.

Sydney

A favorite memory

One of my favorite memories is when I was little and would always convince you and Mema to play whatever game Maddie and I had made up. I’ll never forget “Vampire Road”, out little game of riding our scooters to the “gas station” while pretending to be vampires. I honestly don’t even remember all the rules anymore, but I remember how much fun we had because you always played along. I also definitely loved making you sit through my pretend restaurant, taking your orders like I was a real server Looking back now, I realize you probably didn’t always feel like playing, but you always made the time for us, and those are some of my happiest childhood memories.

What Larry taught them

Poppy, you taught me how important it is to make time for the people you love. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized those games and beach days weren’t just fun memories, but they were your way of making us feel important. I’ve also always admired the relationship you and Mema have. The way you’ve always loved, supported, and been there for her has shown me what a strong marriage and partnership should look like. I hope one day I have a relationship as lasting and meaningful as yours. I also admire how you remember so many stories about our family and keep those memories alive. You’ve taught me how important it is to stay connected to the people you love, appreciate the time you have together, and never take those moments for granted.

A word for Larry

Getting older, I’ve realized how lucky I am to have you as my grandfather. I know how much you love golfing, and this might be a shocker but I’d really love for us to go golfing together sometime. I think it would be a fun way to spend time together and make some new memories, and teach me something new. Thank you for always being there, for making my childhood so special, and for showing our family what kindness and love look like. Happy 80th Birthday I love you, and I hope we make many more memories together.

Love your granddaughter, Sydney

Joshua Wiener

A favorite memory

One of my favorite memories of you is dancing the night away together at Brian and Tracy's wedding. On that day, age was nothing more than a number. We shared so much laughter and joy as we celebrated such a beautiful occasion, and it was one of those rare moments you wished could last forever. The happiness, the music, and the carefree spirit of that evening made it truly unforgettable. It's a memory I will always treasure.

What Larry taught them

Over the years, I've come to the conclusion that you must have the patience of a saint, especially when it comes to my golf game. Year after year, you return to the golf outing, and not once have you ever said a discouraging word about my less-than-stellar skills. Our foursome has often felt more like a threesome with me happily tagging along, yet if you've ever minded, you've never let it show. Your kindness, patience, and gracious spirit have always made me feel welcome, and I've enjoyed every round we've shared together, even if my scorecard suggests otherwise.

A word for Larry

While we may only see each other once a year, you always greet me as though we had just seen each other yesterday. As someone whose father has been gone for nearly ten years, I truly cherish conversations with father figures like you. You welcome me as one of your own, generously sharing your wisdom, asking about my family, and showing a genuine interest in my life. Your warmth and kindness make you so easy to talk to, and every conversation leaves me feeling cared for.

On your 80th birthday, I want to thank you for your kindness, your gentle spirit, and the fatherly presence you've shared with me over the years. May you be blessed with continued health, happiness, and many more wonderful years. And may you always know, not only today, but every day, just how special you are and how much you mean to so many people.

Joshua Wiener

Gary and Mary

A favorite memory

Over thirty years of golf almost every Saturday morning. Thanks to our wives for suggesting we should play together.

Remember our first round together and stuffing my open umbrella into your car’s back seat

Our Friday nights at the Hazlet Swim Club playing volley ball and watching men play water polo. Playing cards at their house on Stone Rd. and watching their dog race along the fence. Watching fireworks on the Fourth of July in Red Bank, NJ. Our trip to Ashville, NC when we saw Chimney Rock and the

Biltmore. Celebrating the new millennium in Frederick, MD.

What Larry taught them

Didn’t know there was so many uses for wax, let alone making a living with it.

We share the same birthday, married Catholic girls, and both had sisters named Lynn. Hard to believe!

Larry taught me to aim my driver near the flag and pick a spot closer to me to set up my club. I still do that.

A word for Larry

Although we now live in North Carolina, we’ll never forget all the good times we had together.

Best golfer I ever had the pleasure to play with.

I wish we continued to take trips together after we moved South. We always enjoyed their company.

Love, Gary and Mary

Marge

A favorite memory

My parents loved Larry from the start. On the night of our first date after I introduced dad to Larry; dad asked him if he wanted a Scotch. Before we went out they sat there talking and enjoying their drinks.

On our first Halloween together in the early evening Larry rang the doorbell and when mom opened the door he proceeded to crawl in the house on his knees dressed as an old man; mask, raincoat and all. I think he scared her half to death before she started calling for my dad. In the, I came into the room and said, That’s no old man, it’s Larry!

I know they were so filled with happiness the day we married.

A word for Larry

On September 24,1972 I married Larry; my soulmate, closest partner through life’s ups and downs, best friend and in house comedian.

To Larry

You are loving, kind and compassionate to family, friends and those in need. You’re the greatest gift that life has given to me and I know we’ ll be together forever.

All my love, Marge

Maddie

A favorite memory

One of my favorite memories is when we went to Disney World together. You started flirting with one of the Disney princesses, and I remember getting so mad. Looking back now, it’s one of the funniest memories I have, and it still makes me smile every time I think about it.

What Larry taught them

You taught me how important it is to hold on to memories. You’re always the one reminding everyone of old stories that make us laugh and smile. No matter what’s going on, you have a way of cheering people up just by reminiscing about the good times. It’s something I’ve always admired and something I’ll always remember.

A word for Larry

I hope you know how much I love you and how grateful I am for all the memories we’ve made together. Thank you for always making everyone laugh, keeping the stories alive, and reminding us to appreciate the little moments. You’re such a special part of our family, and I hope we keep making memories together for many more years.

Love, Granddaughter Maddie

Bonnie

A favorite memory

One of my all-time favorite memories of Larry is one of his crazy shenanigans that he pulled on my mom. I believe it was Thanksgiving, and mom put food labels in all the bowls and platters so when she was finished cooking them, she would know where they went. Larry thinking he was funny switched all the labels so when she went to place them in their platters and bowls, she got all screwed up. Lol

What Larry taught them

Overall, the main thing I learned from him was that even in sorrowful and challenging times, you can always find humor somewhere in that situation. For example, when he would pretend to be an usher at someone’s funeral.

A word for Larry

I love you, Larry, specifically your kindness, big heart, and love of your family.

Love, Bonnie your favorite sister-in-law

Pat and Lee

A favorite memory

While at a stitching seminar some years ago, I was lucky enough to go to dinner with you and Marge and a number of other people. I don't think I ever laughed so hard. Remember? The other diners thought that we were just having too much fun. And no alcohol was involved! Such a good time and all because of you.

A word for Larry

Congratulations on making it to the next decade! Happy Birthday!

We have had many enjoyable dinners out with you and we look forward to many more. You are a joy to be with. We love your many entertaining stories - Lee especially likes the ones involving golf. You always make us happy.

Love, Pat and Lee

Kristen

A favorite memory

Beach days with the frisbee master who could’ve gone pro.

What Larry taught them

See next story ;)

A word for Larry

Everyone here knows that a story from you isn’t really a story until the last line lands. You could talk about grocery shopping and somehow there’s a twist at the end that has the whole room laughing.

Like the story you once told me about Ken’s first paycheck, where he opened it up, see this stranger’s already taken a cut, and said, “Who is this FICA?”

That’s the gift, really, not just the stories, but the impeccable timing. Eighty years of collecting moments and knowing exactly how to deliver them. Here’s to many more punchlines. Happy 80th.

Xo, Kristen

Christine

A favorite memory

Today we celebrate a man who has given us laughter, love and a lot of memories.

I love a good Larry story. They always have a way of bringing everyone together, making us all laugh!

You are a wonderful grandfather to Maddie and Sydney. You have given them the gifts of your time, love, wisdom and sense of humor.

The love you have for them and your family always shines through.

I wish you a wonderful 80th birthday! May this year bring you happiness, good health, and more stories to tell!

Love you!

Christine

Love, Christine

Cousin Mike

A favorite memory

I so enjoy the many, many stories shared about sports happenings and previous work stories about the characters he employed. Also funny ones about times in the Service he spent.

What Larry taught them

All the wealth of his golf knowledge and tips over the last 4 years. Partnering often with him has made me a much better golfer, although it still costs me $$ some of the times.

A word for Larry

Happy Your Day Larry, all the best and many more!! I am truly glad to see you at the links and have you as a great friend!

Be well, Cuzin Mike

Jessica and Michael

A favorite memory

I'll never be able to forget UL's karaoke auditions!

What Larry taught them

UL showed me how a supportive husband, father, brother and uncle should be

A word for Larry

Im very grateful for all of your love and support throughout the years. From hosting HS celebrations and countless holidays to being there for me during relationship hardships and help with mom. Our conversations; whether just plain old comical or more earnest, I cherish every one of them. Ty from the bottom of my heart

Love, Jessica and Michael

Leigh

A favorite memory

When I arrived home from the hospital, you, at age four went and got all your toys and dumped them into my crib so I’d have something to play with!

What Larry taught them

You always knew what clothes were in and what music was cool.

A word for Larry

Thanks for those times you were there for me as my protector and for all the times you could make me laugh, more than anyone else!

Love you big brother

Love, your middle sister, Leigh

Jill

A favorite memory

Larry, I will always remember the wonderful Seafood bakes with everyone in your back yard. We would play upstairs in your garage. Cliff and I loved going up there. Remembering the Derby races and sleigh rides down Chestnut Street. What great times!

What Larry taught them

You always had a loving kindness toward family and people

A word for Larry

I wish you happiness, health and blessings not only for your 80th but many more to come. Happy Birthday

Love and blessings, Jill

Lynn

A favorite memory

Traveling across country to visit Mom's family in Iowa and Kansas...playing games, telling stories, singing songs and trudging through pastures. We only had each other and so despite the age differences, we figured out ways to entertain ourselves and bonded as siblings.

What Larry taught them

How to inflate a bicycle tire.

A word for Larry

How tender and loving he is, especially with little kids and dogs.

Love your "baby" sister, Lynn

Tracy and Brian

A favorite memory

Happy 80th Birthday! Wishing you a wonderful day filled with love, laughter, and the company of family and friends. Your kindness, wisdom, and the memories you’ve created over the years mean so much to the both of us. Here’s to celebrating this incredible milestone and wishing you many more happy and healthy years ahead!

Love Tracy and Brian

June

A word for Larry

Larry,

I want to take a moment to thank you for being such an incredible husband to my sister Margaret. Seeing how happy, secure, and loved she is every day means the world to me. Thank you for giving her such a beautiful life.

Love, June

Sharon

A favorite memory

On Larry’s return from Scotland, I asked him about the golf there and he gave me a golf ball from St. Andrew’s!

A word for Larry

You are a fine example of a husband and father. All the best on this special day.

PS-forgot to add golfer

Sharon B

Kerry & Abbey

A favorite memory

Happy Birthday Uncle Larry! Reaching this milestone is worth marking, and we hope the day treats you well. Some favorite childhood memories include you telling stories that had the whole family laughing. Wishing you a good birthday and a healthy year ahead!

Love, Kerry & Abbey

Paul and Diane

A favorite memory

Happy Birthday Larry! What can we say to a great guy who became a part of our family who shares a great son with our daughter. We always enjoy seeing you on your visits here. You are our Olympic winner!

Love, Paul and Diane

Jason and April

A favorite memory

The time we were cracking my mother up when she got out of surgery and she asked the nurse to get us out of the room.

What Larry taught them

The art of telling a good joke.

A word for Larry

Yes. I love you.

Love Jason and April.