Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Larry Bemis Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Larry Bemis
Sponsored by Duane Brown.
CAROL A HURSON
September 14, 2025
Good chocolate! Always enjoyed sharing with you my friend. Missing you!
Lynne Hopkins Delinks
September 15, 2024
Miss and think of you very often. We had lots of fun. xxxx
Duane Brown
September 14, 2024
Always in my heart!
Duane
Carol Hurson
September 13, 2024
You will always be in my thoughts and memories. Especially when I 'm eating chocolate:)
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
lynne delinks
September 14, 2023
Miss you so much. We had fun times. Lynne
Carol and Tim
September 13, 2023
We still miss you my friend. So glad that we have so many good memories.
Duane Brown
September 13, 2023
...15 years and still missing you.
Duane Brown
September 13, 2021
13 years and still think of you often my love.
Duane Brown
September 13, 2020
Life continues, but you are still missed my love.
Carol and Tim Hurson
September 13, 2019
Another year gone by. We still talk of you often and are grateful for the good times we shared.
January 10, 2017
Larry, We had lasagne for lunch. Oh, Thanksgiving & wonderful memories. We miss you. Love, Carla & Rick
Carol Hurson
January 9, 2017
We're having a tonic in your honor on this eve of your birthday. Remembering good times. You always made me smile. Miss you!
Carol Hurson
January 8, 2015
It's birthday time and not the same without you. I think of you all the time and still miss you.
January 7, 2015
Larry,
We all miss you. Duane still grieves for you.
Thinking of you as your birthday approaches.
Carla & Rick
September 18, 2014
Miss you very much Love to you.Lynne
September 18, 2014
Still missing you but grateful to have such fond memories.
Duane Brown
September 16, 2014
Six years. Still miss you, still love you.
Duane
September 16, 2014
Six years. Miss you, love you.
Duane
September 16, 2014
Larry,
Think of you all the time.
We had some terrific times.
Love, Carla & Rick
Duane Brown
January 10, 2014
Happy 65th Birthday. Still miss you and love you.
Carol Hurson
September 18, 2013
So glad you came into my life memories of you continue on and give me great pleasure.
Duane Brown
September 16, 2013
Five years ago today. It still seems like yesterday. Love you and miss you.
November 23, 2012
Had a great time staying in "Brown's Boutique Hotel" on Sutter last month. D. and I spent a lot of time hanging out in your favorite room. He sits in YOUR chair. Wish you could have been with us - but then, you probably were. Love, A.
October 26, 2012
Still think about you all the time and miss your charming ways and humor but yu still make me smile. Love Carol
October 19, 2012
I didn't post on 9/16, but didn't forget. Had my health scare this year but all is well as I'm sure you know. Love you always.
Carol Hurson
October 14, 2011
You are so often in my thoughts and all are such fond memories of conversations, and laughter. I am grateful to have had you touch my life.
Ann McArtor
October 1, 2011
Hey, old friend - Duane put out a new (old) picture of you recently and everyone who sees it is reminded of how handsome and funny and great you were. We all miss you! You would be proud of Duane, who is still the anchor for so many of our group gatherings. Much love, Ann
September 17, 2011
Miss you. When I hear the song Lady in Red, I remember how we would dance to it. What fun we had. Duane think of you often. Love, Lynne
Duane Brown
September 16, 2011
Thinking special thoughts today my love.. still missing you. Duane
Marilyn Bemis
September 3, 2011
Subject: Larry's SF Memorial
I wanted to tell you about the memorial for Larry in SF a couple of weeks
ago. It was pretty well attended - about 50 people - and...many were
missing due to prior committments. It was really nice. It was at the home
of Rick and Carla Morabito. Carla had the house looking fabulous. Larry
and Duane's friend Lynn did all the flower arrangements. They were mostly
huge and spectacular. The food was fantastic, too. Carla did probably
three platters of meats. I know she cooked a turkey and can't tell you what
the others were except that I know it was a lot of work. Lynn made several
salads (pasta, bean, etc) - very, very good. AND other friends contributed
to the food as well. More salads and lots of baking comes to mind...lemon
bars, brownies, several kinds of cookies...yum. Rick and Carla house is
pretty big so it just sucked up 50 guests without notice.
There was no real format. It was more of a social gathering in Larry's
name. Duane started a new page in the same guest book we use in PA. and had
it out with
the same picture of Larry that was framed in flowers in North East. He had
a scrap book available that Larry's navy buddy created for him and Carla had
put together a collage of photo's. Duane had put many of the photo's we saw
in PA into a photo album which was fun to see and spurred conversation.
People came that Larry knew from Decimus, his SF job in the 80's. His
friends from his most recent job at BofA showed up as well. Quite a few of
Duane's highschool friends came. Most of them knew and loved Larry as well.
It's a group Duane put together in the past few years that get together
regularly for dinner and even bridge. Some people showed up who live in the
building and a few from the neighborhood. There was a former colleague of
Duane's from UCSF. THEN, there were their extended group of friends.
It was a very beautiful day indeed. It's just that we all kept missing Larry!
Love to you all,
Marilyn
Marilyn Bemis
September 3, 2011
During Larry’s last days in the hospital, he had good days and he had bad days. Some days, we could not be sure how much he understood what we were saying. It was one of those days that I was with him alone in the evening just hanging out. We had tennis on the TV with the sound down thinking it may keep his mind occupied if he was aware of his surroundings. So I asked him, “Can I watch some of the convention?” and much to my surprise, with his eyes still closed he shock his head, “yes”. I followed up with, “It’s the Republican Convention.” And he shock his head “NO.” I just next asked if he wanted me to leave it on tennis. I got a yes headshake and a warm fuzzy that he was still so charming to be with.
I don’t know anyone else like Larry. I feel so grateful to have been able to spend time with him (and Duane) and enjoy him as much as I have. He was a fantastic listener and I found him to be completely nonjudgmental. I miss him very much.
Marilyn
9/25/08
Kira Schultz
September 3, 2011
I've had Larry and you on my mind pretty steadily these days - even more so as the days go by. This has been a long strange couple of weeks, and there are many thoughts brought on by these recent events. I find myself thinking of Larry and scenes from the past - I hadn't seen him in years and never had the opportunity to meet you - but Larry and I grew up together and spent a lot of time together in those days. We must have spent 8 thousand Sunday mornings together in Sunday school alone, sort of behaving ourselves, sort of. Not to mention Sunday nights at "youth fellowship", which actually describes those evenings pretty well. I can actually remember a couple of sweaters he wore - which is encouraging because I can't even remember my own sweaters half the time now. After we left school and moved away we saw each other again in NE in the summers or Thanksgiving for reunions or random get-togethers - and again ended up howling and screaming with laugher over something or other - never failed. We laughed til we cried - that was the norm. We were a lucky bunch to have had each other - really fortunate, and it's hard to take in the fact that now he's gone. I thought about what you said about it being very quiet now - I can't begin to imagine what that's like, but want you to know I am thinking of you and how you're doing. I appreciate very much that you kept us all in the circle when Larry was in the hospital, and gave us a chance to communicate with him - and each other - as best we could. You did us all a really big favor - we will all remember this.
I'm so sorry your time together was cut short. Please accept my deepest sympathies - I can't think of a better way to say it than the old fashioned way. We will all be thinking of you and Larry from now on.
Fondly,
Kira
9/25/08
Casey Bemis
September 2, 2011
He was such a precious soul. I miss knowing he's just a road trip away.
Casey Bemis
On Sep 25, 2008
Barbara Bemis
September 2, 2011
I was just thinking about the three times that Larry and Duane were here for the Bemis family reunion. They stayed with us for two weeks each time and we had so much fun. I can close my eyes and see Larry sitting out on our patio in the sun and working on a pile of New York Times crosswords puzzles, yes in ink. He would nod off, wake up and work some more, and nod off again. I remember the time when, despite the fact we had our own home-grown tomatoes, he had not made himself a tomato sandwich. When I called him on it, he said, "But I only like them witih Miracle Whip." I didn't even have the words out of my mouth all the way that it was on the fridge shelf and he was in the kitchen drooling while he made the first one!
I remember the year when Diane could come but not Eric. Diane had Trevin with her and he was about 15 or 16 months old. He was fussing and Larry took him and had him asleep on his lap in less than 5 minutes. I have the sweetest picture of that somewhere and I'm going to dig it out for the display table. You'll love it too.
Love,
Barb
9/25/08
Duane Brown
September 2, 2011
When Larry was discharged from the Navy his friends made a scrapbook for him of their time with him. Much was tongue in cheek, but I know from Larry much was true. It's clear that eveeryone loved Larry. And when Barb talked about how dashing he was in his whites it just made me hone in on the pictures in the scrapbook -- he was dashing, handsome and really cute -- he looked all of 16 in most of the pictures even though he was probably 25 or 26. And -- I, of course have heard the Carla story many times - from Barb, Jim, Larry and Carla. Carla was quite a part of Larry's life and has been major support throughout this ordeal. Duane
9/25/08
Barbara Bemis
September 2, 2011
I think I'm up to this by this time. The first time I really spent much time with Larry was when he was about to graduate from the Univ. of Louisville. I was dating Jim at the time and was invited to drive down with him and stay with Jane and Milton in their motor home. Larry was so dashing in his white uniform and received his commission into the Navy. He was his usual charming, warm, and loving self. The experience in the motor home was something else, as some of you could realize!
The next time, Jim and I were married and we flew to San Diego, rented a car, and drove up the coast to San Francisco. Of course, Larry insisted that we stay with him.. At this time, he was living on Larkin St. We arrived at his door expecting to see a furnished apartment, only to see that the living room had a love seat, chair and tv. He carried our luggage to his bedroom and insisted we take the king size mattress on the floor and he would sleep on the love seat! What a picture to see him all scrunched up in that thing the next morning! He gave us keys and went to work. We decided to go sightseeing so we locked the door and left. When we came back, we heard noises coming from the kitchen. We were really concerned that someone had broken in but the door had still been locked. We tiptoed out there only to meet Carla for the very first time! She had left shoes in Larry's place and couldn't get in to get them so she came down the fire escape and in the kitchen window! She told us Larry never locked the door because he never knew where his keys were!
The next morning, I went to make some tea only to discover that Larry only had a couple of glasses and pieces of silverware in his kitchen. We bought him some mugs and when we went to stay with Duane for the two weeks we were able to spend with him before we had to return home, I discovered those mugs in the cupboard. Duane said that he insisted they had to move in with him because I had chosen them for him.
I miss him more than I can say. I'll miss him for the rest of my life. He was an officer and a gentleman.
9/24/08
Cornelia Griggs
September 2, 2011
I grew up with Larry, too. I was in school with him til graduation. Happily, we have always remained in contact.
I remember:
Larry on the school playground,
that he was not in my 6th grade homeroom,
in Mr Simmons' math classes,
with Mrs Roggenbaum and Gertrude Kraus,
at Sunday School,
at the podium on "Youth Sundays"
at Byrdie's,
wrestling,
on sleep-outs,
at Lynnie's and Kira's and Vicki's,
and at the Shack.
being the smartest guy in the class,
being funny, flustered, blustery, grimacing, biting his nails,
his laugh,
walking on the beach,
talking to my mom at her kitchen table about Emily Dickenson,
at a class reunion,
with Duane at the Café Marly and
at the Louvre - the Egypt collection,
and a few other Parisian restaurants,
at the Shack (again and again),
at Bill and Kerry's,
and reading Duane's updates.
I will miss him, Connie
9/24/08
Barbara Hamerton
September 2, 2011
I had written to Duane last week one of my memories but it had to do with Larry’s belongings. Sherry and I were young, probably 9 and 10 living with the Grandparents in North East and of course, we used to have haunted houses in the basement where we would use baby powder as “dust”..to make everything look old. Well, Larry had quite a bit of his things stored in the basement and I do recall getting yelled at for not only getting baby powder EVERYWHERE but also on some of Larry’s things. We didn’t know any better. He also had a nice collection of albums including some Rolling Stones and Elton John. We played those over and over again. In fact, I’m pretty sure it was Larry’s record player that got some of that haunted dust on it too. Good Lord…can’t believe our manners back in the day. Regardless…for young girls, Sherry and I knew the song Bennie and the Jetts pretty good!!!
Other good memories were during college when I would go home to North East for the holidays and when Larry was there I looked forward to it. He was always someone who I enjoyed talking with. Very intelligent man…I remember his nose in a book very often.
I also had the opportunity to go to San Francisco once and hang out with Larry and Duane. They picked me up from San Jose as I had been there visiting a friend. We had such a nice day that turned into an awesome evening at a fancy restaurant. I was supposed to fly out the next day out of San Jose but all of had drank so much that no one was able to drive me back!! So, Duane and Larry called a cab for me (after Duane’s awesome cappuccino) and sent me back to San Jose. I can only imagine the cost on that!!! But, better than getting behind a wheel. I know my head hurt the next day but I so enjoyed finally getting to see San Francisco and their home.
I will miss Larry dearly. Miss those late night chats on the phone…yeah….we did the drink and dial every now and again. Hope there is peace for him now.
9/23/08
Duane Brown
September 2, 2011
Larry was the kindest, smartest guy I knew. In the approximately 14 years we were together he never once raised his voice at me in anger -- and only occasionally in outrage over something he read in the paper or was watching on the news. As Aunt Betty said in a note in a card I received recently - he was the kindest man she knew. He was! He was generous beyond belief and the best friend I've ever had. We spent much time together just being together and suddenly while watching news, Larry would scream out something about how outrageous he found the news report we were listening to or the newpaper article he was reading. It's way too quiet here without him. I will miss him forever!
Duane
9/22/08
Dave Bemis
September 2, 2011
Growing up with Larry was a precious experience. Even though I was nearly four years younger and we were cousins, not brothers, we spent a lot of childhood time together, at his house and ours.
When my brother (also four years older than me) was hard on me, Larry never was. (Sorry, Sumner. I’m sure I deserved it, but you WERE often hard on me.) Larry could be sarcastic and he could tease, but he was always kind. Not once as a child, or in our later years when we spent time together on the West Coast, can I recall Larry being unkind. Not once. For a child to have another child whom he can rely on, someone he can trust never to be mean or untrustworthy, is a very important thing. I think Larry helped shape my entire world view, my belief that people are basically good despite all the crap in the world. He also showed me that it was OK to be intelligent, that “macho” wasn’t everything, even for boys growing up in the 1950s. Of course, he would mock me for being a sappy sentimentalist if he were reading this, but too bad, Larry. I’m writing it anyway. We both know you loved to have a reason to get righteously indignant, so consider this a gift. I loved you a lot.
9/22/08
Sharon Gingras
September 2, 2011
I loved Larry because he was the love of Duane's life. Duane & I have known each other since we were two years old. I hadn't know Larry for too very long, but enjoyed every time I was able to be in their company. As I am an early riser, when I (and the last time Dawn, too) went to visit he & Duane, it was Larry that always was up when I got up. I'd have to try to figure out the coffee maker, which Larry would attempt to help me with and once we got it made he would visit it with me while he read his papers or worked on his crossword puzzles. Of course, we'd have to wait for Duane and Dawn to get up, but that was okay, too. We enjoyed him attending our class reunion with Duane, also. He & Duane were wonderful hosts and we will miss Larry, too.
9/22/08
Georgene Bemis
September 2, 2011
Cousin Louie (Larry) would fly into Pgh. and spend some time with our family. One day in the summer he was due to go to the airport but the sky looked dark and threatening. He would not leave for the airport until I picked up the kids from the waterslide park and he wouldn't let me wait. He kept nagging me, "You should go NOW", he said, standing outside with his cup of coffee. Lucky I listened to him because a tornado followed the Monongehala River and flooded the valley. I just made it out in time with a van full of seven kids. We all loved him and he will always hold a special place in my heart. (I danced with him and he stepped on my feet!)
Love Ya Larry,
Georgene
9/21/08
Linda Assalino
September 2, 2011
I love reading stories about Larry, they sound just like him, he was such a funny sweet guy.
He always knew he was lucky to have such a warm close family.
I'll miss him, again thanks.
On Sep 20, 2008
Marilyn Bemis
September 2, 2011
Hi to all those who loved Larry. My family started sharing stories about Larry in emails and I thought maybe the rest of you would like to hear them and maybe add your own. There are so many stories and all of mine I remember fondly. He was so unique, so fun, so generous, so much to so many people.
In the 80’s, I was living in Santa Cruz and my brother David was in Santa Barbara. Larry and I would drive to Santa Barbara regularly to visit David. This one weekend, it was a particularly nasty winter storm and we seriously deliberated if we should even go. Well, we did. We got in the car, went a short distance until we got up to speed and heard a consistant knock-knock-knocking coming from what seemed the back passenger side wheel well. We stopped and got out in the driving wind and rain, made a thorough inspection of the car and found nothing wrong. So we got back in the car, back out on the road and the noise would begin again. So we would stop and check and get back in and drive. We repeated this pattern at least five times when I had an a-hah moment. Larry was wearing a trench coat and when he was getting into the passenger seat of car, he would leave the belt of the coat shut in the door with the end out on the street. When we got up to speed, it would flap against the side of the car making the noise. I guess it was funny to us because we worked so hard to figure it out and it ended up being such a small thing. It was also such a typical thing for Larry to do…to close the door on his coat not just once but five times!
I love you Larry! You brought so much to my life. I will miss you dearly.
Marilyn Bemis (cousin)
9/20/08
Duane Brown
September 2, 2011
The reminisces are wonderful. I've seen many family photos over the years and he was a cute kid. I'll remember him mostly for his kindness and generosity to everyone. He was a very special guy and I'm not quite sure how I'll cope for some time. He'll be with me forever. WIth much love and appreciation for all of the Bemis family support. Love, Duane
9/18/08
Jerry & Betty Bemis
September 2, 2011
It's funny that last night I was going through the same thing. I believe it was the summer of
'86 that Sharon came with us and we flew out. We headed from your house and stopped at
Hearst Castle, then picked up Marilyn and went on to spend the weekend with Larry.
It was one of my favorite vacations We had such a great time. Larry not only bought the
new car, but he bought a new bed and the package of all the linens to go with it so we would
all have a place to sleep. I believe he also bought pots and pans which I'm sure he never used.
It's the only time I really saw San Francisco. We rode the trolley, went to the wharf, the
Japanese tea garden, walked past the painted ladies, went to the top of the Mark and Lombard
Street. Larry was a wonderful host. We have great pictures of that trip also.
I also think of him as a little boy with his curls. He was always pleasant and got along so
well with the rest of you kids. The only time he really got mad was when they would try
to put him into that one-piece snowsuit. Our children and Milton's were like one family
and we all felt like they all belonged to each of us.
Memories will always be with us.
Mutual sympath to all.
9/18/08
Sumner Bemis
September 2, 2011
I too have many memories from when we were little (never thought he was that cute though!!!!), but he was a great friend. Stuff from the farm like sitting in the peach trees completely sticky with peach juice and eating peaches until we got sick. Same thing with cantaloupes. What about that bank and the sled rides!!!
Georgene has so many funny stories about him and our kids, cousin Louie as they called him. That's what is important to me was his love for everyone else and how you enjoyed your time with him.
except when he did those darned cross word puzzles!!, Never my strong suit!!!!
Sumner Bemis
9/18/08
Betty Bemis
September 2, 2011
Great minds run in the same channel. I also was thinking about that
trip we took when Sharon came
with us and we all did the touristystuff including going to Larry's. He
not only got a new car, but he
went out and bought a bed and complete linens for it so we would all
have a place to sleep. I think he
even bought pots and pans which I am sure he never used. That was
really my only real glimpse of
San Francisco. We did the wharf, the tea garden, walked by all the
painted ladies, and went to the
top of the mark. He was a wonderful host. I have some wonderful
pictures of that trip, too.
Then I was also thnking of him when he was a little. How cute he was
with all the curls and how
well he got along with all you kids. Great memories and many more which
as you say, everyone
has his own. Thanks for reminding us.
Mom
David Bemis
September 2, 2011
Last night I found myself staying up late and flipping through old photos
that included Larry. It made me feel a little better remembering all the fun
we've had together.
This batch all seems to be from 1985. (Cute haircut, Marilyn!) I hope you
can all view them. If not, let me know and I'll try to print and mail them.
Clockwise from bottom left:
1. Larry finally sells the ancient Yucky Yeller VW Beetle and buys a snazzy
convertible Cabriolet (which he later swears he regrets and pines to have
ol' Yucky back.)
2. Larry helps Sumner dip his toe in the Pacific Ocean on Sumner's first
trip to Santa Barbara, just because Sumner needs to say he's dipped his toe
in both the Atlantic and the Pacific.
3. Marilyn apparently tells Larry a joke, or maybe it's the other way
around.
4. At Christmas, because Larry's apartment had a fireplace, we gave him some
firewood, a hatchet and, I think, some fireplace tools. Apparently, we gave
him some frying pans as well. Larry didn't seem to understand that the
hatchet is for use on the firewood ONLY.
I'm sure you all have your own photos and your own memories. I just wanted
to share these tonight. I guess I feel that Larry is still with us when I
look at the photos.
I hope to see everyone in Pennsylvania on Oct. 4, or whenever the service
ends up scheduled.
Love,
Dave
9/17/08
Duane Brown
January 20, 2011
Things have been tough recently - missing you a lot! Frigga and Ron sent a beautiful orchid when you left us. It has been amazing - it just keeps blooming. By the time of your birthday it had 5 beautiful white flowers. Whenever I look at it I think of you. It's on the coffee table now and will stay there until the flowers go - and return when it blooms again. All my love always. Duane
Duane Brown
January 10, 2011
Larry,
Thinking of you on your birthday. Raising a glass of Johhny Red to you my sweet. Love always, D
John Brasch
September 20, 2010
Thanks for keeping me in the loop. Larry was one of the most interesting persons I ever knew.
September 18, 2010
I still miss him, too, Duane. The loss, I guess, is the price we pay for the pleasure of having him in our lives. Better to have loved and lost, you know? When I'm melancholy, thoughts of him bring tears to my eyes. When I shake myself out of it, they bring a big smile to my face. Such a unique, wonderful man.
Duane Brown
September 16, 2010
Two years ago today. I miss you and love you. XOXO, Duane
January 10, 2010
Sweet Larry,
Today is your 61st birthday, I sure wish you were here so we could celebrate it together. The holidays were not special this year. I missed you too much. As usual we celebrated Johnathon's birthday and toasted you too, then Lynn died on Saturday. It makes this time of year even more difficult. I hope she's found you and the two of you are smiling and laughing! All of my love, Duane
October 16, 2009
Duane, I have so many fond and loving memories of Larry and think about him so often. I'll always remember he and I traipsing through the Paris Metro and just laughing at all the little things we experienced during that wonderful trip. He always made me feel special and I will never forget him. Please know that I am always here for you. Much love and peace to you. Adele
Larry and Dave, 1982 (Nice tan on all four legs)
September 26, 2009
Larry (rear left) with Grandfather Alcorn, siblings, cousins and Lady the collie at the farm, circa 1960
September 26, 2009
All six grandsons at Ray Bemis funeral, 1985
September 26, 2009
Christmas 1985: He had a fireplace; was that hatchet the wrong gift?
September 26, 2009
New Cabriolet, 1986
September 26, 2009
Larry the young gentleman, 1961, front row center
September 26, 2009
Susan Bemis
September 23, 2009
Duane, I shared these thoughts with you last year, but I wanted to add them to the book as well. I also wanted you to know that I am thinking of you and Uncle Larry. Lots of love - Susan
Like everyone, I have many fond memories of Uncle Larry. Some are from when I was little and others were created as a "grown-up". What I remember about him depends on how old I was when the memory was created. I'll share just a few with you here.
Uncle Larry was very thoughtful, and the overarching memory I have of him from childhood is that he always made you feel special. When I was about 10, he sent me a navy blue sweater with big white polka dots and a white knit skirt for my birthday. I thought it was the most fantastic thing – Uncle Larry picked out a stylish outfit just for me and sent it all the way from California! (At the time, California was very far and exotic.)
He used to play Go Fish with me at family gatherings. As the baby cousin of the family, I remember frequently trying to sucker someone out of their adult conversation and into a game of Go Fish. Uncle Larry would always play with me and ask in his most mischievous voice, "Do you have a deuce!?" I thought he was so silly and had no idea where he got that word he was using instead of the word two. Now, having played long games of Go Fish with little kids, I am even more grateful for how much genuine fun he brought to that game. When he would say goodbye to you, he would give you repeated kisses that were accompanied by an emphatic "muah" that cannot be imitated in written form. His visits from California were always something to look forward to.
More recently, we spent time together in Erie and in San Francisco. I got to know Uncle Larry and Duane as grown-ups. I'm grateful for that time and for the wonderful memories I have of visiting with them in Erie and staying with them in San Francisco. As many of you have mentioned, staying up for half of the night to listen to a piano concert in their apartment and discuss politics are both a part of my memories.
When I think of Uncle Larry, the dance floor comes to mind. I especially remember him dancing with Aunt Nancy at a family wedding. I was about 12 at the time and remember thinking that they looked so sophisticated all dressed up and like they couldn't be having more fun together in that moment. Which leads me to what I will remember most – how much fun he was to be around, how he brought joy to regular moments in life, his wonderful smile that was always genuine and, most of all, how much we all loved him.
With love,
Susan
Georgene Bemis
September 22, 2009
Dear Duane,
As the first year without Larry passes my memories grow and I'm able to smile more. Both you and Larry will be in my heart now and forever.
Bill Lutz
September 22, 2009
Kerry and I think of you often Duane. We hope and pray that you are rebounding from our loss of Larry. Know that Larry needs you to enjoy your life, so you will be able to have him in your heart and keep his memories alive.
Jim and Barb Bemis
September 21, 2009
Dear Duane,
We are so proud of the way that you've come through the long and hard year that you've had to deal with. We love you always and miss Larry always. I know that he is with you each day, watching over you. Always know that we are here for you.
Love,
Jim and Barb, Erie, Pa.
Sharon Gingras
September 21, 2009
Larry, it was such a privilege to meet you and share time with you and Duane. We miss you, but rest assured that I will always be there for Duane. Afterall, he is like a brother to me and he needs to know he can always count on me. I, too, know you aren't far from Duane's heart but we are all watching out for him in your absense. We will all be together one day! RIP! Love, Sharon
Ann McArtor
September 20, 2009
Dear Larry and Duane,
The many times you hosted us at your beautiful place in S.F. are some of my happiest memories out of nearly 30 years in the Bay Area. I remember coming through the front door into your warm hugs and how you always had something incredibly sweet to say, Larry. The life you created together was such a good one and those of us who were privileged to share even a little of it were fortunate indeed. We miss you, Larry, but I feel certain you are never far from Duane's side.
Love, Ann
Duane Brown
September 15, 2009
Sweet Larry,
We're just a few hours away from when you left us a year ago. It seems like yesterday. It isn't any easier now than it was then,
In the past year your Mother has joined you, Johnny has joined you and recently your Aunt Doris.
Chris got married, Steve got engaged, Phillip got married, and I missed not having you there by my side for those events.
Life goes on, but it's pretty empty without you.
I miss you terribly and you will always be the love of my life!
With all my love, Duane.
Sharon Gingras
March 18, 2009
Duane, can't believe it's been 6 mos. since Larry went to be with the Lord. I know he is up there watching all of us down here, especially you, to make sure we are doing OK! Love you, Sharon
March 16, 2009
Well Sweetie - you've been gone six months today. It still seems like yesterday and it isn't getting much easier. I miss you every day. All my love, XOXO, Duane
Duane Brown
December 29, 2008
Christmas is over, it's almost the New Year. Life is forever changed. It has been very difficult dealing with the holidays as I knew it would be. You are missed! Two people you didn't know were here for drinks Saturday, I met them while spending time in the ICU. They lost a loved one too, two days after I lost you. Lots in common.
Forever in my heart. XOXO, Duane
Lynne hopkins
November 4, 2008
Larry you are not gone. You live in all of us. Your gifts give us happiness. I miss you so. Only wish we had more time. But, we will catch up soon. Love, Lynnie
Duane Brown
November 3, 2008
My sweet Larry,
We had the San Francisco memorial for you not long ago. Again there were many people there who loved you. A whole bunch of Decimus and BofA people were there and my classmates and UCSF friends too. Carla and Lynn did a major party in your honor! We were surprised at the number of your friends we'd never met. I'm still barely coping. I miss you so much! More later my love! XOXO Duane.
Duane Brown
October 9, 2008
My Sweetie,
The Memorial for you in North East is over. You probably had no idea how many friends you had. About a quarter of your class came to the wake at Bill and Kerry's house and everyone had lots of good memories about you. Kerry even played 60s music so we could dance!
The church service was wonderful and there were MANY people there. Then Jim and Barb had people back to their house. It was wonderful having the support of your family. Almost your entire family was there! And Warren and Maxine have been Godsend to me.
It's hard be home again without you!
All my love, Duane
Larry, Carla and Jerry, Cristmas 2006
October 9, 2008
October 9, 2008
Carol Hurson
September 30, 2008
I first met Larry at B of A when our deparments were being merged. Larry was not at all happy about moving to the "boonies "in Livermore. Our relationship was strained for a while and there was never any doubt how he felt about the move but Larry was always a Gentlemen and over time we developed a friendship and a bond that took us beyond work.
At one point Larry was the only male in our group and this drove him crazy when the conversation would drift to "girly" things. He would cover his ears and yell "TMI, please tell me I'm not hearing this" Of course, we would all laugh and dish out some more just to watch him squirm. We all loved Larry and he made us laugh a lot. He had a great sense of humor and wit and I think it pleased him to make people laugh.
I am grateful to have had the privilege to share some great times with Larry and also with he and Duane. I will miss him so very very much.
Karen Kinney
September 29, 2008
My memories of Larry are pure joy. He was so vibrant and full of life and ALWAYS made me feel special. Larry was genuine, real and generous and the world was a better place with him in it. Duane, I hope you know how much I love you and how sorry I am for your loss. Larry was a wonderful man and I am lucky to have known him. I will truly miss him and from my experience, loved ones we lose continue to comfort and inspire us long after they are gone. Knowing Larry, he isn't going to leave you alone for a minute! All my love.....Karen
Rita Yeager
September 28, 2008
Dearest Duane,
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you, my friend!
I am sorry I was never able to meet Larry.
I know the two of you shared a very special love.
Love is a gift to be cherished and never to be forgotten.
You are in my prayers, my friend!
xoxo
Lynnie Hopkins and Larry at their 40th class reunion
September 27, 2008
Sharon, Larry and Dawn in SF
September 27, 2008
Duane Brown
September 27, 2008
11 days have passed and I miss you more each day. The memorial Service in Erie is set and there will be many friends and family there.
The memorial in SF is scheduled and there will be many people at that one too. You were truly loved.
...and I know why. All my love, Duane
In North East - 2006
September 27, 2008
Raphael and Judy Edmond
September 27, 2008
We were very saddened by Larry's death. We know that he and Dwayne had a long and hapyy relationship. We offer our sympathy to all his family and friends.
Vicki Brown
September 25, 2008
I always thought of Larry as my neighbor...just down the Lake Road. And didn't we have a great time growing up in North East? Larry was always in the middle of whatever fun we were having. What I will remember most about him is his laugh and fun-loving nature, as well as spirited conversations. We'd all come home from college (Grapepickers, Class of '66) and get together and play games or even go sled riding. He was -- simply put -- just a great guy. We'll miss him.
Tish Bryan
September 25, 2008
What sadness. Larry was such a wonderful, funny, intelligent person. He made us laugh......a lot. It was an honor to know him and to share part of his life with him. Duane, our hearts are with you during this time. Know that Larry was loved and cared for, now and forever.
Betty & Jerry Bemis
September 24, 2008
Our nephew but also like our son. He was born into our family as well as
his. We always loved Larry and
will remember him as long as we
remain on this earth.
Gordon & Tony Douglas/Querciagrossa
September 24, 2008
Such wonderful memories of our times with Larry: New Year's Eve dinners at his and Duane's gorgeous SF abode, our spectacular luncheon at The French Laundry (thanks again, dear Rick and Carla), 49'er Sundays where we all shared love and laughs even on losing days, and our summer days with Larry by the pool, soaking up the rays and an occasional Ramos Fizz. He was such a funny and kind guy, and the perfect host and guest to boot. We shall miss him.
Les and Marilyn Fenton
September 24, 2008
Larry,
From a neighbor and friends that go "back a ways"; Marilyn wants to say again that she's forgiven you for moving in across the street and building a house in her favorite spot to make mud pies. Your kindness and honesty are memories we both cherish. You will always be, a true and wonderful friend.
Love,
Les and Marilyn
Cornelia Griggs
September 24, 2008
Every memory I have of Larry, and over about 50-some years or so that makes quite a number, I remember a brilliant friend - fun, laughing, vociferous, serious, silly, sincere, curious, out-there, so many delightful adjectives correspond to Larry. Larry in high school, at "the Shack", in Paris with Duane. I'll miss you so.
Dave Bemis
September 23, 2008
Well, as I said in a recent e-mail:
Growing up with Larry was a precious experience. Even though I was nearly four years younger and we were cousins, not brothers, we spent a lot of childhood time together, at his house and ours.
When my brother (also four years older than me) was hard on me, Larry never was. (Sorry, Sumner. I’m sure I deserved it, but you WERE often hard on me.) Larry could be sarcastic and he could tease, but he was always kind. Not once as a child, or in our later years when we spent time together on the West Coast, can I recall Larry being unkind. Not once. For a child to have another child whom he can rely on, someone he can trust never to be mean or untrustworthy, is a very important thing. I think Larry helped shape my entire world view, my belief that people are basically good despite all the crap in the world. He also showed me that it was OK to be intelligent, that “macho” wasn’t everything, even for boys growing up in the 1950s. Of course, he would mock me for being a sappy sentimentalist if he were reading this, but too bad, Larry. I’m writing it anyway. We both know you loved to have a reason to get righteously indignant, so consider this a gift. I loved you a lot.
Dave
John Brasch
September 23, 2008
Larry, you were a unique person. Of all the Phi Taus I have known you were one of the ones I remember the most. Duane you were fortunate to spend time with Larry. Bill and I still talk about the day we came to San Francisco from Sacramento when we were there for an NCAA Pre-Regional. Larry drove us around the entire city in his Volkswagon convertable and took us to the top of every hill there. It was a day I will never forget.
Adele Gruber
September 23, 2008
My friend Larry was one of the joys of my life. Larry was the epitome of kindness, giving, thoughtfulness, and generosity. He and Duane completed each other in a way that you couldn't help but feel the remarkable love between them. He gave Duane many years of much happiness which he richly deserved. I always enjoyed his wonderful and funny stories about his loving family while we sat in the very early a.m. having our coffee. There was never a time when Larry was anything but a joy to be with and I will miss him forever.
Sue Keeney
September 20, 2008
Your sisters in Bend will miss you, but please know that we will forever keep watch over the love of your life, Duane.
Bill Lutz
September 19, 2008
I will never forget you Larry. From wrestling, to sleeping in the cemetery, to drinking scotch. My wife Kerry and I thank you for your visits to our home here in PA. Your spontaneous and contagious laugh will always be with us. Another thanks to you Larry for bringing Duane into our lives. Rest well my friend. You will be missed and much remembered.
Sharon Gingras
September 19, 2008
Duane, I'm so sorry for your loss but so happy that you had Larry in your life. Although, I hadn't known him for as long as some of your friends, I sure enjoyed each time we were together. He was knowledgeable, fun & so welcoming. I'll miss him, also. Dawn & I had such a great time with the two of you. Now Larry is another "angel" watching over you.
Love you, Sharon
Duane Brown
September 19, 2008
Larry my love,
You will be forever in my heart.
Duane
Showing 1 - 98 of 98 results
Make a Donation
in Larry Bemis's name
Memorial Events
for Larry Bemis
How to support Larry's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Larry Bemis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
