About 3 years ago, we were in dire need of bowlers on our league team, and my dad—himself a fellow member—went to recruiting his golfing buddies. Larry was one of those who answered the call, and he immediately made his presence known when, upon being added to the team’s group chat, he announced, “Hey, this is Larry from the OC!” It wasn’t long until he became affectionately known as HBOC Larry, or “House Ball Oak Cliff” Larry, as he was the only member of the team rocking a house bowling ball instead of his own. Larry took to it quickly, while the team took quickly to his uplifting vibrancy, energy, and humor.
Acting was always a topic, and in a recent conversation amongst the team, it was debated whether he could play a woman so the team would be eligible for a certain bowling league. Larry responded, “Yes, I played an 85 year-old woman recently, and I wear make up.” Larry had gotten his own bowling shoes, and was planning to FINALLY get his own bowling ball. As of today, the last words uttered in the team’s group chat were by Larry. I’d imagine it stays like that for a bit; it’s hard to follow up HBOC Larry energy.
I will miss Larry, but I’m equally grateful I got to experience his light for a time, albeit fleeing.
Rest well, HBOC. And don’t worry, we’ll roll a house ball down the middle of the lane for you this fall…and yeah, OK, we’ll try one of your beloved light beers, too.