Larry Matranga

Larry Matranga passed away on Friday, October 19th, at the age of 75. He was enjoying work on his Alpine ranch, when he had an apparent heart attack. Larry was the long time owner of the popular Gaslamp Quarter nightclub, Patrick’s II. He was instrumental in bringing “Live” music back to Downtown San Diego. Larry retired in 2005 and was enjoying his, all too short, twilight years in good health.

Born in Detroit during the depression, Larry quickly learned the value of a dollar. He worked at a bowling alley and his father’s dry cleaning business before moving to San Diego to escape the harsh Michigan winters. Larry got his first taste of bartending at his Uncle’s bar “The Buccaneer” on 4th Street Downtown. An occupation that was to be his true forte in life. During this time he was introduced, thru mutual family, to his future bride and love of his life, Santina. Married a few years later, their love affair would continue through 51 years of marriage. Their deep affection for one another was the bond that most long for, but few achieve.

Larry enlisted in the Army and spent his time in Germany as a cook. Afterwards, he tried his entrepreneurial skills in various ways, including owning six lunch trucks and two Laundromats. However, it was in the bar business that he ultimately achieved success. Purchasing Patrick’s in 1976, when downtown was still in decline, his nightclub became a catalyst in the revitalization of the area. For almost thirty years Larry could be found behind the bar at Patrick’s, with a smile on his face, a joke at the ready and a bottle of peppermint schnapps in his hand, ready to welcome all to his establishment. No one did it better. He will be missed. For the good time!!

Larry’s surviving loved ones include his wife Tina, sons, Chris (Cindy) and Mario (Kathy), grandchildren Brianna, Nicholas, David (Courtney), Joshua, Cheyenne and Michael. His sister Rose (john, brothers Joe (Thomasine) and Henry (Becky), and Numerous nieces and nephews. Also, his loving mother, Josephine, who celebrated her 101st birthday on October 23rd.

There will be a visitation from 6pm to 8pm with a Rosary at 6:30pm at Goodbody Mortuary on Monday, October 29, 2012.

Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, October 30, 2012, at Our Lady of the Rosary at 10am.

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