Letter: A tribute to Larry Kane

To the Editor:

Way back in the days of the “main event” page and fancy dress, I often was assigned as a stringer to attend gala parties. And the photographer assigned with me? Nine times out of 10, it was Larry Kane. We went to more social events in one year than my husband and I attended in five years.

Larry was just like everyone else has said: Kind, considerate, never wanting attention drawn to himself. One of the storylines was what the ladies were wearing. He always asked me, “Would you go up to that lady in the dress there and ask her if I can take her picture? I’d rather you asked.” And, of course, I complied. And, of course, the women were happy to have their pictures taken. Larry never, ever made anyone feel as if he was bored taking “fashion shots” (as I called them). He was always courteous, thanked them profusely, and I think, for a moment, made them feel as if they were the center of the event.

He never told me if he knew who he was photographing (in the sense of their “standing” on the social scale), but he did have an unerring eye for what would make a good photograph, and it didn’t matter to him who you were. If he thought you’d be a good subject, he’d take your picture.

I was so sad to hear of his passing. I saw him recently at one of the BLM protests at Six Corners, and went up to have a short conversation with him – he was working, I was marching. It was lovely to see him, and I will treasure the time we spent working together for the “society page.”

Rest in peace, Larry; may your memory be eternal.

Pat Perrier

Crest Hill