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Larry Aiken Obituary

Larry Aiken - entertainment promoter, entrepreneur, philanthropist and Vanderburgh County Democratic Party activist -- died Feb. 13 at age 69 after a long illness.

Aiken, who attended Bosse High School, retired from a 44-year career in advertising and entertainment promotion in 1999. He was chairman of the Vanderburgh County Democratic Party from March 2005 until February 2008, when he stepped down for health-related reasons.

While still attending high school in the late 1950s, Aiken achieved local celebrity status as "Lonesome Larry" on WEOA Radio.

While he was at WEOA, Aiken hosted a dance show on WEHT-News25.

In 1958 he left Evansville to pursue work as a radio disc jockey with broadcast stations in Louisville, Ky., Pittsburgh and Atlanta.

Returning to Evansville in 1963, Aiken founded the Aiken Agency with his brother, Keith.

The company, later renamed Aiken Management, would produce 1,700 shows over the next 36 years, including events with Frank Sinatra, the Harlem Globetrotters, Larry Bird, Elton John, Johnny Carson, Jay Leno and Barry Manilow.

The company, which Aiken sold in 1999, ultimately became the second-largest presenter of touring Broadway shows in the United States.

Published by Courier Press on Feb. 14, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Larry Aiken

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71 Entries

I never saw this column glad I am responding. I met Larry in the early '70s in a business situation where we promoted The Doobie Brothers in Evanville as partners. Working with him was an absolute pleasure and we spent the next five or six years promoting concerts as partners. He's very astute, very smart very modern and an absolute pleasure to work with I miss Larry Aiken a great deal. Rest in peace.
Danny Kresky

Danny Kresky

June 27, 2023

Valenda Newell

January 1, 2017

I was always inspired by Larry and hated to see that he had passed away. One heck of a nice guy

Rob Matthews

October 10, 2015

Larry Aiken was truly an amazing person with so much talent the loss is clearly ours. Prayers fill our hearts and burst forth from our mouths to God asking him to let us remember clearly the love we have for this wonderful person gone from our lives never forgetting the joy we shared. Hebrews 6:10.

October 26, 2014

I haven't seen Larry in decades but in the 1950's I dated his brother, Keith, so I got to know him. I was actually trying to find Keith when I spotted Larry's obit. He was a great guy and I am sure that Evansville will miss him.

Nancy Terrell

August 23, 2012

As a teen who spent his summers in E'town, Larry opened my mind to the magic of radio and ignited the passion that led me down a career path as a copywriter, scriptwriter, producer and agency creative director. I don't know if I'd have wandered onto that path anyway. What I do know is that it was Larry who put me there in the first place. A belated thank you, my hero and role model. Semper culti in memoria

Bob Feigel

November 28, 2011

larry was a pleasure to work with and the real deal during the 70's when we (Pacific Presentations) were pipelining shows into evansville.....

Sepp Donahower

May 3, 2010

Dear Suzanne, Andy, and Tony,

We were so sad to learn of your loss. Larry was a true Evansville hero. He brought so many of us so much joy through his interests and endeavors. From Watching Rocky at Theater A, to meals at Chelseas or the Pub, to going to Pretenders concerts and the 500 with Andy and Tony, he truly impacted our lives. We wish you all the best.

The Lantzes (Jeff, Suzy, Matt, Ben)

Matt Lantz

March 2, 2010

Suzanne,
So sorry to hear of your loss. I've ben trying to keep track of the Evansvile obits ever since finally attending a Bosse reunion last October. Now I understand why you and Larry weren't able to attend.
Our best to you and your famiy.
Wayne & Bunny Doebling

February 26, 2010

Suzanne and you fine sons,
I will miss Larry so very much he was so very kind to me. I am a photographer and Larry let me photograph many of the shows and other events he presented. Much of my work he used in his restaurants including Chelsea's and The Pub. I always looked forward going to 918 S.E. 2nd street to meet Larry and sit across from this great man and go through the latest photographs. He would always know the shots he liked... almost never what I would have picked but again Larry knew what he wanted and once matted and framed He would be right. Larry Aiken was truly one of a kind. I will always remember My friend Larry.

Mark Berry

February 23, 2010

Dear Suzanne,
I am so sorry to find out, belatedly, about Larry. I have been out of town and realized this had happened late last nite (Sat the 20th). You and the boys have my deepest sympathy. He was, of course a huge personality and
brought so much energy and passion to our community artistically. He, as an icon, will be deeply missed. God bless you and your Family. Fondly, Julie Harrison

Julie Harrison

February 21, 2010

Suzanne,

Your husband possessed that rare entrepreneurial spirit. He was certainly an Evansville icon! His contributions to entertainment, politics, and philanthropy will be missed. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Nancy Pyle Seib

February 21, 2010

Please accept our deepest sympathy on your great loss.

Bill and Faye Wortman

February 20, 2010

Suzenne--My deepest sympathies go to you and your family. I know a lot of Hanover folks are thinking of you and praying for you. I appreciate the friendship you had with Carole over the years and the support you gave to me on her passing, now nearly four years ago. You had an exciting life with Larry and much happiness. Peace,

Monty Siekerman

February 20, 2010

I worked with Larry at WROZ ("Rosie") radio. He became my friend and inspiration. I also knew his mother Juanita. One of her favorite stories about his childhood was how he would entertain the neighbors with his make- believe disc jockey programs, broadcasting from his bedroom window. He is greatly missed.

Lou Thompson

February 19, 2010

RIP Larry.

John Mincey

February 19, 2010

Evansville will miss Larry Aiken.

Jim Fitzgerald

February 19, 2010

Suzanne and Family,
Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peace and Blessings.

Wanda Erwin

February 18, 2010

I remember listening to "Lonesome Larry" while "dragging" Main St., cruising the Merry Go Round, going down to the "new" McDonalds, then driving down to Austin Drive In to see and talk to Larry while on the air. He made my teenage years a sweet memory. He will be missed. My deepest condolences.

Chris Smith

February 18, 2010

I never really knew Larry personally, but his presence was felt in everything he touched. I worked with him indirectly when he was establishing ChelseaS. He was a legend in this town. I frequented the establishments he'd created and enjoyed the ambiance he produced in them. He was a great entrepreneur and a wonderful spirit. There are few of his kind these days. He will be missed.

Bob Barsumian

February 18, 2010

Suzanne....I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Perhaps you will remember me as your next door neighbor when you lived on Brentwood prior to me moving to Chas. SC some 38 yrs ago. Now that I am back in E'ville, I would love to see you.
Try to remember the good times.
Love, Joyce

Joyce Hollis-Miltner

February 18, 2010

Suzanne and Family,
Sending our sympathy and prayers, also to let you know our heart goes out to you at this time of sadness.

Jan and Wayne Stovall

February 18, 2010

Suzanne and Family,so many memories,so little time.May this warm,ingenious gentleman,who brought joy to so many,rest in peace.You,your family and Larry are in our prayers.

Tom(and Pat) Langley

February 18, 2010

Suzanne,

Larry was such an icon. Our prayers are with you and the boys. What wonderful memories we all have.

Lisa (Vandeveer) Aders and family

Lisa Aders

February 17, 2010

I met Larry through a mutual friend back in the early 70's and Larry put me to work at the Beer Garden because I was there all the time and he needed help during the start up. The free tickets to concerts where appreciated as well.
Years of moving around I lost touch with both Larry and Keith but when back in Evansville I would occasionally run into them and it would be like I never left.
Moving around the country I would meet people that knew them no matter where I lived. We all had stories to share and will continue to remember him and his accomplishments. Suzanne, Tony and Andy, our condolances on your loss. Your memories must be as immense as Larry was in life.

Paul

February 17, 2010

Suzanne and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad and difficult time. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Linda Miles Dunn (Bosse Class of 1958)

Linda Dunn

February 16, 2010

Suzanne, Andy and Tony:

So many great memories of him! When I was a teenager I frequented the Music Inn. Bought lots of records. Later in life, I had the great opportunity to know him away from his business interests. Many a night I shared the banter between him and David Berry, and laughed 'til I cried. So many great memories! He was our community's vision for entertainment. More importantly, he was just a good guy!

Mike Libs

February 16, 2010

Suzanne and family, please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. There are no words that can truely be expressed to touch the sorrow felt at the passing of your loved one, but may we try to begin by saying embrace the loving memories you all have shared.

Karen and Darrell Ragland

February 16, 2010

We send our sincere sympathy to you and your boys on your loss of Larry. We thank him for his major contribution to the entertainment venue for Evansville throughout the years.

Carolyn & Dick Bohm

February 16, 2010

The entire board of directors and staff of Albion Fellows Bacon Center would like to extend our most humble sympathies on the passing of Mr. Larry Aiken. His generosity toward our organization in particular,and his interest in assisting the non-profit community has been a great example of servant leadership. We will forever remember the kindness shown to us by this dear man. May your family be surrounded by the support of friends in the days ahead and may wonderful memories sustain you.

Candice Perry

February 16, 2010

Suzanne and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad and difficult time. "Lonesome Larry" touched many lives and will be missed by many.
Barbara Stewart (Bosse Class of 1958)

Barbara Hobgood Stewart

February 16, 2010

larry was a great person;R.I.P

JOHN W

February 16, 2010

I have always said the only things I really ever needed to know in life to survive in this world I learned from Larry and my Father. Suzanne, my heart goes out to you, Andy and Tony. There was only one Larry Aiken, and I am grateful to have known him.

Tim O'Leary

February 16, 2010

The world lost a Giant,a family lost a husband and father. I served Larry for almost 20 years in the show biz world and later in politics. He was my friend,mentor,advisor coach. Andy ,Tony your Dad taught me alot about the world. Suzanne thank you for sharing Larry,I know it was tough,Larry did make the World a better place. Peace,Steve Bagbey

steve bagbey

February 16, 2010

Suzanne, I am so very sorry for your loss. Larry loved Evansville and gave so much to this city. I know my dad, Pete Woods, respected him so much. He served his city well. I am proud he was my cousin.

Cheryl Camp

February 16, 2010

I'm glad to see all of the press that Larry Aiken has gotten. He meant a lot to this community for a long time and his family should take comfort in how much he was appreciated by many.

I know his son Tony and have always known Tony to be an exceptionally nice person. Extending sympathies * and prayers* for the family of Larry Aiken.

Martha Garrett

February 15, 2010

Larry you wasa special person and made yourself high up by doing all the things you did during your Lifetime.your uncle Pete thoughtyou were great. And I LOVED your Mother Juanita. I hope Suzann and the boy will be blessed and comforted. I loved all of you verry much. Aunt Mary. God Bless all of you

mary woods

February 15, 2010

I will never fofget you coming to our car wash at washington Sq.and put a beattles black wig on me..Also the breakfast club on radio and you made me talk on air you will be remembered for all the big things that happened in Evansville. katie O'Donnell

February 15, 2010

A little testament to Larry.I met him and Keith when they had the Music Inn at Washington Square Mall in 1964.Their mom,i believe,owned the Art's Market,where art supplies were sold,nearby.When he opened the Beer Garden on Columbia and Fulton,I sang in the house band The Garden.I knew Larry over 45 years,and saw him occasionally at The Pub when in town.
I had some local bands over the years,and promoted my share of concerts as well,some with the late Bob Folz.Evansville was lucky to have him and his big city attitude about entertainment.He was good to me,and,even though I only knew him for 45+ years,he will be missed.Peace brother Larry.Enjoy your time in Rock and Roll Heaven!-Jeff DeVillez

Jeff DeVillez

February 15, 2010

a great guy will be missed by many.

bill hardin

February 15, 2010

I am shocked and saddened by Larry's passing. I met him back in the 1970's whan he managed our band, "Midwest". It was easy to click with Larry, and of course his right-hand man, "Bubbles". Larry booked us gigs at the Beer Garden and other venues. I will never forget those experiences and the good times we had. May his family find comfort during this time. Bobby Blackford

Bobby Blackford

February 15, 2010

Tony,
So sorry to hear about your Dad! You will be in my thoughts & prayers.

Susan Williams-Simpson

February 15, 2010

I worked for Larry only a couple of years in the early seventies and he remains as one of my biggest mentors, his charm and business savvy inspired the hell out of me then and still does today. His accomplishments and achievements are astronomical. He was the only one that told me the entertainment business is the only business that you can truly mix business and pleasure. I can’t begin to tell what an incredible impact he had on my life and the direction of my career. I haven’t spoke to Larry in many years and I regret terribly that I never got to tell him this in person.
RIP Larry

Jay Hall

February 15, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

David Batten

February 15, 2010

Dear Suzanne, Tony, and Andy, We were so sorry to learn of Larry's passing. He was most certainly a husband and father to be proud of and he leaves a wonderful legacy in the three of you. You have our deepest sympathy. Please feel some small comfort in knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many people. Sincerely,

Don and Jane Reynolds

February 15, 2010

Larry was such a wonderful human being. How fortunate we were to have had him with us.

Pamels Burch Matthews

February 15, 2010

how well I remember going through Austin's Drive-in and listening to Larry spin the records...wonderful memory...thanks, Larry

peggy peak davis

February 15, 2010

After working at The Pub for years. I had the great luck of talking and laughing with one the wittiest men I have ever known. I will never forget the times I stood behind the bar listening to the stories of the old days. So many stories. All of them were great. Talking music, sports,and of course politics.I will never forget those times. Thank you Larry. I will truly miss you. P.S. CZAR, You looked great in those Flap caps my friend.

Mark Hudson

February 15, 2010

Tony sorry for your loss.
You and you family are in our prayers
William And Patricia Swingle

February 15, 2010

I am saddened to read this news, but am happy that Larry gave us all that he had, a true 120%. He was a real pro, but kept things light. Larry was the only person here that actually knew me as the musician I am and respected me. I loved the few times I worked with him as an arranger. I have told stories of my times with him to so many.
So long Larry......

David Schnerr

February 15, 2010

I feel that I owe Larry much as he was a very influential entity in my life. I can still see him in my mind sitting at rehearsals directing members of Carnival. He will be missed and remembered by us all. Thank you Larry and may God bless you.....Joe Lorey

Joe Lorey

February 15, 2010

So sorry to hear of this sad news. Larry was a pro with a sense of humor.

Kerry Gaines

February 15, 2010

Aiken Management presents the hottest band in the land Kiss never forget he kept alot of us out of trouble in the 70s

brad hunt

February 15, 2010

Suzanne, Andy and Tony my heart goes out to you in loving sympathy. I am so sorry for your loss. Larry touched many many lives. May the memories we share and our prayers give you comfort.

Sarah Larson

February 15, 2010

I've known Larry over 30 years. He was a tough businessman and a friend. There are many happy memories I have over the years. I wish I could have seen him more in the last few years. I will miss him.

Jim Staley

February 15, 2010

My deepest condolences to you and your family, Suzanne. Larry was a colleague, a partner, but most of all...my friend.

Sandie Aaron

February 15, 2010

suzanne and family, so sorry for you loss. it was alway a pleasure to see larry here at the office. take care and call if you need us!
laura (dr judy's nurse)

laura smith

February 15, 2010

I worked at the Pub for many years and always enjoyed talking with Larry. He was truly an inspiration to anyone he came in contact with. My greatest memory will be him telling me Happy Tuesday or Merry Weekend because we always thought it was strange people were not as friendly in everyday life as they are during the Holidays. My heart and sympathy goes out to his family. Evansville has lost not only a great entertainer and democrat but an extraordinary man. RIP Larry.

Jeni Moore

February 15, 2010

Suzanne--I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Larry was a cousin that I greatly looked up to and Dad always valued and respected his political/social views. Our family has lost yet another unique individual who left a mark on those who knew him. God Bless,

Yvonne Neff Woods

February 15, 2010

Oh Susanne...I'm so sorry to learn of Larry's death. Can't help but remember all the fun we had together, backyard swim party's, St. Pat's Day party's, Beer Garden party's, and the fun road trips together. Know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Marian

February 15, 2010

Suazanne,

I'm so sorry to hear about Larry's passing. Larry is still remembered in Pittaburgh. He will be missed.

Jeff Roteman

February 15, 2010

i am in fl. but i am very sorry that i am not there to give my respect to larry and his family. we had a great time kidding each other about politics and other events around town.
gene hahn

gene hahn

February 15, 2010

Suzanne, we are so sorry to hear about Larry. He was one-of-a-kind and we will miss him.

Steve and Julie Shofstall

February 15, 2010

I enjoyed many nights at the Beer Garden
& have lots of fond memories of Larry. I'm sure he will be missed. I pray for his family, may God watch over you & know Larry is at peace.

Pat Weathers/Dempsey

February 15, 2010

Even though he was just two years older than me, he was a mentor, like a father to me. He admired my talents as I admired his. We worked together for many years and separately to help make Evansville a better place. we succeeded! I'll never forget the story Larry use to tell regarding his and Keith's first major promotion event: Henry Mancini and Andy Williams at the stadium. "We had every dime we had in the world on those two and Keith and I were on our knees at the airport , praying, that their plane would land safely....it did....and the rest is history and a tribute to the man of many idea's who made his community a great place to live. I'll always have the upmost gratitude for what you did for this Community, for Evansville Civic Theatre, and for me. My condolences to Suzanne and his two son's and their families.

Dick Engbers

February 15, 2010

Suzanne: So sorry to hear about Larry. He was renowned in Evansville- very much liked and so creative. Thinking of you and the family. George Royster

George Royster

February 15, 2010

Larry Aiken-THE MAN!

February 15, 2010

I think all local entertainers appreciated the many professional services provided by Larry,including me, among others. He was a header in the industry before it got very complicated.
I'm so sorry to see one of the headers who cared... leave our world. Hopefully, he was in the fold of the mighty Shepherd!

M. Dianne Berry

February 14, 2010

Andy, so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. Think of you often and hope you are well..Carol Mark

Carol Mark

February 14, 2010

Larry did more for Evansville than anyone else I know. He put Evansville on the map. May God comfort his family during this time.

Sam Yates

February 14, 2010

A fan of "Lonesome Larry" spent hours listening in . BRM

February 14, 2010

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