Lawrence "Larry" R. McCloskey

Lawrence (Larry) R. McCloskey, age 71 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 9, 2021 in his mother’s residence after a short battle with lung cancer. Larry was born on November 15, 1949, in McKeesport and was the son to Anne (Mardell) McCloskey of McKeesport and the late Harry McCloskey.  Larry was a professional drummer who was known under the names Larry Mardell and Larry McCluskey during his musical career that spanned more than four decades.  He played with well-known entertainers such as George Benson, Earl Klugh, Jackie Wilson, and other famous bands and musicians.  Larry also enjoyed playing locally with Jimmy Sapienza and Five Guys Named Moe, Al Dowe and Etta Cox, Gigolo, Kenny Blake, The Young & Wild, Holy Mackerel, and Perfect Bitch.  Larry’s lifelong passion was jazz music, beginning lessons at age 6.  By age 10, Larry was playing professionally in local night clubs.  Larry was known at one time as one of the best drummers in the country.  Larry also spent time traveling and lived in various parts of the country including San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, and Hollywood, FL.  When he was not gigging on the drums or participating in jam sessions, Larry could be found working as a professional painter and enjoying leather crafting and wood carving. His creativity and passion for anything artistic was what truly gave joy to his life.  Besides his mother, Larry is survived by his sister Cara (Robert) Zanella of North Huntingdon, daughter Tracy (Jeff) Martini of West Newton, grandchildren Reena and Jacob Martini, and great-grandchild Aurora.  Friends will be received in the Daniel F. Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory, Versailles, on Monday, July 12, 2021 from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM.  Mask use is mandatory as per the wishes of the family.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 at 10 AM in Mary, Mother of God Parish - St. Patrick's Church, McKeesport, with Frs. Vincent Velas and Donald Voss co-officiating.  Procession and entombment to follow to St. Joseph's Cemetery, North Versailles.  Memorial contributions in Larry's name should be made to the McCloskey family. 

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