Lawrence ‘Larry’ Straub

CUBA — Lawrence “Larry” Straub, lovingly known as “Big Red,” passed away peacefully at home Tuesday (Nov. 18, 2025) at the age of 79, surrounded by his loving family. Larry faced his battle with cancer courageously and with unwavering strength.

Born May 21, 1946, in Olean, Larry was the son of the late Edward C. and Clara Dorson Straub of Allegany. He was one of five siblings and grew up in a close-knit family that instilled in him values of kindness, loyalty and hard work.

On April 18, 1970, Larry married Patricia “Trish” Seamans at St. Bonaventure Church in Allegany. Their union of over 55 years was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, warmth, and family at their countryside home in Cuba.

A graduate of Allegany Central School, Larry was later drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam.

Following his honorable discharge, he embarked on a long and successful career with Olean Wholesale Grocery Co-Op, where he worked for over 40 years. Larry was widely respected and known for his good-natured personality and work ethic.

An avid golfer, Larry loved his time on the course, especially after retirement, when he perfected his swing and enjoyed time with his golf buddies. His competitive spirit also shone brightly in bowling and horseshoes. He once bowled a perfect 300 and earned several notable horseshoe titles during his lifetime. He was the 1993 New York State Horseshoe Championship Class C winner and the Class C Men’s New York State Champion in 1998. He also took first place in the Men’s Class B category at the 1991 New York State Horseshoe Pitching Championship.

Larry was a fan of classic westerns, with John Wayne films and Gunsmoke holding a special place in his heart. He found joy in solving Sudoku puzzles and had a remarkable ability to connect with people. His warm smile, genuine kindness, and knack for making friends left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Trish; his two children, Janet (Chris MacMurray) Ofano of Tega Cay, S.C. and Kevin (Denise) Straub of Allegany; and his four grandchildren, Alyssa Ofano, Madeline Straub, Brady Straub and Gavin Straub, whom he adored and loved spending time with. He is also survived by his brother, Chuck Straub of Allegany; his sisters-in-law, MaryBeth Straub and Bonnie (Chuck) Straub; his brothers-in-law, David (Joyce) Seamans, James (Lauren) Seamans, Jeff (Amy) Seamans and Bill (Diane) Seamans; his sister- and brother-in-law, Barbara Seamans and Dave Rogers; as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Edward C. and Clara Straub; his siblings, JoAnne (Ken) Kelly and Richard Straub; and his infant brother, Raymond Straub.

A private family service will be held Monday (Nov. 24, 2025) to honor Larry, with military honors to be accorded by the Allegany American Legion at the Guenther Funeral Home, located at 1303 E. State St., Olean. A public celebration of Larry’s life will be held at a later date to be announced.

In honor of Larry’s memory, the family kindly requests donations be made to Homecare & Hospice in Allegany, or the Glioblastoma Foundation, in lieu of flowers.

Larry’s legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.