My Dear Friends In The Hobby,
It is my deepest regret to verify this Astronomical Loss to our hobby today. Larry L. Busch succomed to the ravages of this disease earlier this morning. Amidst that horrible news, I want everyone to know his dedication to the hobby; to all of you, never waned. All he did was talk about keeping this place going while he fought valiently to beat that damn "C" word.
I'd love to reminisce here about what Larry meant to me, and to the hobby, instead of dwelling on death. Would that be ok with you all??!!
Here goes:
What Larry taught me: is the value of a person's word; honestly; and fairness. His unusual ablity to just "Trust" people was never lost to me in this cut-throat world. He and Harvey ran a business, that still consisted of a cut and paste catalog a man's word; honestly; trust; and a true old fashioned hand shake.
I Friends, had the luxury of living within minutes of the old shop there in Perrysburg. Why the coffee was better there on a Saturday Morning, than anywhere else, and eventually working for parts on Saturdays, kept my fix for old bikes going.
My First purchase of an old bike, was at Memory Lane Classics Swap Meet. At the time, a bike costing $650.00 was something near impossible, but when I mentioned my fondness for a Boy's Montgomery Wards Hawthorn Duralium under the parking lot tent at the swap, Larry said............."well, we take payment plans ya know". No, I didn't know that, and honestly, the thought of doing that sounded intriguing. So, I gave him $50.00, and told him I'd be back over the next few weeks to make steady payment, and said "see ya later". "Thanks Larry". He said............."aren't you forgetting something?". "Take your bike home with you!!". Wow, now that was trust....................and I found myself a home
Keep up the memories friends, and make them positive. The only negative I want to hear about, was Larry's dedication to always squishing whatever sweet treat John Pollizi had on his swap table..................wink.
I'll keep you posted as I am able from here.
Lisa for the Great MLC!!
