Larry Gardner Mckenzie

Larry Mckenzie, Age 82, passed away August 4th 2016 at home. Larry was born March 30th, 1934 in Powell Ohio to the late Lillian “Gardner” McKenzie and Wiliam McKenzie. Larry attended East High School class of ‘52 and studied business at Franklin University. Larry was owner/founder of McKenzie Records and PA & Guitar Rentals, as well as owner/founder of Hillside Record and Recording Studio. Larry was instrumental in helping newfound artists gain recognition with records made in his studio such as Kenny Rogers, Ron Harrington and Dean Francis before they became popular. Larry was well known throughout Central Ohio as a professional entertainer and producer of records on his Hillside label. Larry spent his life devoted to health and fitness- in fact he was an avid biker and made biking his primary source of transportation until he was 76 years old! He would only start up the car in extreme weather, during long trips or when he had to haul something he couldn’t fit on his bike. His sense of humor, extreme musical talent and singalong gatherings when he would strum magic on the guitar will be missed by all.

Larry is survived by David McKenzie (the drummer), Harvey McKenzie, Rita “McKenzie” Grabovich (David); Grandchildren, Nicole Bartling (Nick), Dustin McKenzie, Michael McKenzie, Aaron Grabovich (Alana), Crystal McKenzie, Wesley Blackburn and Hannah “McKenzie Thompson” Leonard (Dan); nine great-grandchildren; and three half siblings: Jack and George McKenzie and Mary “Mckenzie” Meintel from Richwood, WV; and former wife and longtime friend Carol Kennedy.

Friends may call Wednesday, August 10th from 1-3pm at SCHOEDINGER MIDTOWN CHAPEL, 229 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215. A memorial service will begin at 3:00pm. Friends and family wishing to send contributions may do so by donating to the American Cancer Society.