Larry S. Bahnaman

Lawrence S. Bahnaman cherished son of Lawrence and Kathleen nee Cusack, loving

brother of Jack (Michelle), Mary Kay (Rich) Nichols, Uncle of Haley, Jack, Mitchell Bahnaman, Lexi & JT. Nichols. Many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Born in Chicago, his family moved to Tinley Park [1971] when he was 5 years old. There he established many lasting relationships. An exceptional athlete, he excelled in football as a quarterback and middle linebacker. He was a fearsome tackler. Experiencing some knee pain that was thought to be football related, he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in his knee. After several surgeries, the decision was made to amputate his leg just days after his graduation from grammar school. Like everything in his life, he moved forward, overcoming this setback to achieve more.

Next stop, Brother Rice High School. At Rice, he joined the wrestling team and wrestled competitively despite having only one leg. Needless to say, he was a motivation to his teammates and fellow classmates. In addition he was an excellent student, placing in the top 2% of his class of over 450. He remained a strong, loyal supporter of Rice until the end. His academic accomplishments and strong character proved to be the impetus for him to continue his education at the University of Notre Dame, making his family very proud.

Finishing his education, Larry was a very successful salesman of IT products. Before his recent illness forced his retirement, Larry established his own successful roofing company [Rigid Restoration], partnering with one of his Tinley Park friends. He loved playing cards with friends, hanging out with family and was an avid White Sox and Notre Dame fan.

Diagnosed with a progressive form of prostrate cancer, like everything he did throughout his life, he fought a gallant fight for 5 years. In heavy pain and soreness for the past 6 months, he wasn’t bitter and never complained, not wanting to be burden to his family. A strong Christian conservative, he was firm in his convictions. He used his Catholicism to strengthen his faith in Jesus. He regularly attended mass and received console from priests to enrich his spiritual life. He had time to prepare his soul and he took full advantage of it.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, Frankfort, IL  3PM -8PM. Funeral Service on Monday, April 3, 2023, with prayers at the funeral home at 9AM then to St. Mary Catholic Church, Mokena for Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM. Interment at St. Mary Cemetery, Mokena

In lieu of flowers, family is asking for donations to Brother Rice High School (see link below)