REAL REAL LIFE

Larry Seben: 1953-2006
Larry Seben

It is with sadness and a heavy heart that I announce the passing of one of our own. Larry Seben, contributor to our "Today In Rock" feature, passed away this week after a 4 year bout with cancer. He was 52.

In addition to being a HalfSquare contributor, Larry was a family man, writer, trivia nut and musician, as well as my uncle.

After growing up in western Pennsylvania and attending Penn State, Larry and his new wife Rita spent several years in Philadelphia. When they moved back to the Pittsburgh area, they brought with them a souvenir - their first daughter Megan! Four years later, they welcomed their second daughter Hilary into the world.

Several days before Larry passed, I was lucky enough to share a final visit with him in person. At this point, he knew his condition to be terminal - yet I found him to be upbeat and talkative, and looking forward to playing his bass again.

I loved to talk music with Larry. It was frequently a subject of our conversation. And this time was no exception. We spent some time talking about great classic rock songs being covered by contemporary artists like Pearl Jam and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He was all smiles. I could almost see the concert footage rolling in his mind, dreaming of being on stage.

Music meant the world to Larry, and I'm certain it gave him comfort until the end.

The entire HalfSquare family would like to send our condolences to the Seben family. You will be in our thoughts.

Rest in peace Larry. You will be missed.