Search by Name

Search by Name

Larry Bressler Obituary

Larry Bressler, 50, was the general manager at Chefs Center, a commercial kitchen rental space that has helped launch many successful local businesses. Bressler and his wife, Denise were fatally stabbed Monday in their Pasadena home. Leave your memories for Bressler here.
Published by The Gazette on Oct. 15, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Larry Bressler

Not sure what to say?





59 Entries

Claudia L

October 2, 2015

Chef Larry one day told me at final day class "I see you in less than five years leading a group but you have to believe in yourself" after class I cried so much I went home took my son and stop 7years of domestic violance and start a new great live...Im sad because I didn't have a chance to told him how his comment impact my life he never know what I was suffering but he knows I have talent...God bless his family

Jill Gold

June 8, 2015

Fond memories of Larry at a NJ family reunion.

So Sorry for your loss.

Jill

Renee Schoenbach

March 30, 2015

What an awesome gentle man Larry was. he will be surely missed.
Luv your cousin Renee

Love forever from your Mama

Ellin Snow

March 12, 2015

My darling son, Larry and dear daughter-in-law, Denise...I just came upon this page which I am not sure I ever saw. Here it is five months after your deaths and I am able to read the beautiful tributes to the two of you left by your friends and family. I miss you every single day, but in a way, I still feel you with me. Larry, you are still the son-shine of my life. I wish we'd had more times together, but treasure all we did have. Your loving Mama

Karen Eskin

December 11, 2014

Fond memories of the 70's with Larry. Sympathy to the family.

Barbara Krause

November 9, 2014

The Rodems Relatives--Larry's grandmother and my father were first cousins-- are still so shocked and sad.

Sondra & Herb Berman

November 3, 2014

Dear Ellin, Bob and Mona,

We just learned about this unspeakable tragedy. There are no words for the pain you must be feeling. Our hearts go out to you. Our deepest sympathies.

Marian Lopez

October 28, 2014

I only knew Larry for what seems a short amount of time. He always answered my questions and guided me to my start at Chefs Center. "Thank you Larry for your help" RIP Larry and Denise

October 27, 2014

You have my deepest sympathy. May the God of loyal love comfort the family during your time of sorrow. Psalm 119:76

Tina Ross

October 26, 2014

I was stunned and deeply saddened to hear of such news. I know it has been forever since we have had any contact but your whole family always had a special place in my heart. Specially, because I was treated like family whenever I was with you all.

My deepest, deepest condolences. You are all in my prayers.

October 21, 2014

To my cousin Larry & his wife, Denise,
So heartwarming to see the friendship and love your community has for you. So sad to hear of your horrific death. May you rest in peace.
To Ellin , Bob & Mona may you find solace in the fond memories of the love & happiness you shared with Larry.
Love from your cousin Mark & his family

RIP Larry & Denise

Anna Heredia

October 21, 2014

Larry will be missed, he was more then a co worker for me, 4 days out of the week for over 4 years we shared time together, he was like a brother to me, he always had something funny to say, always put a smile on my face... To his family my condolences "Your loved one touched a lot of lives, brightened soo many days , and truly made the world a better place."

Sarah Boyd

October 21, 2014

To all who knew and loved Denise and Larry, I send my compassionate thoughts. Their death makes no sense, but your enjoyment of Larry and Denise and their delight in living do make sense - many shining lights

Sheila Moweta

October 21, 2014

Met Larry when it was called "mamas kitchen" and he was very warm, accommodating and passionate about helping people like me grow food ideas and catering into $$. He really pushed Chef Center and I appreciated and looked forward to the em-mails telling us where we could go to showcase and sell our products. He was a big man with a BIG heart and although I didn't know him well, I will miss that kind of commitment to "foodies like me."

Jeff Chilin

October 20, 2014

Larry was a kind and caring spirit. He helped my business partners and me better strategize when starting our catering company. He took the time to give us his input and experiences. He loved food, people and Led Zepplin. He touch many and was inspirational in helping people make there dreams come true. We need more people like Larry in this world. He will missed by many however, he leaves his mark in this world and will live forever through the success of those he touched.

As the Stylistics put it
"People make the world go round!".

Sharon Tani

October 20, 2014

We will miss you, Chef Bressler! I'll always remember your happy smile, your enthusiasm for life and your evening stops in the library with some treat in hand. Thank you for always supporting me and our Le Cordon Bleu students. You were a rare, generous spirit who touched so many people around you. You will always be remembered.

Gilda Moshir

October 20, 2014

This is so shocking to hear of a person in my community stabbed to death for no apparent reason and at such a young age. Larry helped me get my food business started at the Chef's Center - he was tough but was always cordial, helpful and would share resources - this is indeed a sad day for the Bresslers. May you rest in peace

Lisa Gage

October 20, 2014

Larry, you are missed but will never be forgotten. I shall remember your generous spirit, infectious smile, your enthusiasm for music & food and the guidance you eagerly extended to all.

October 20, 2014

RIP Larry and Denise. you were angels here on earth and i pray that you are owning that identity and continuing your mission in heaven above.

October 20, 2014

i'm just in shock, like everyone else. i had only communicated by email with larry a few times in the last month and was so looking forward to meeting him next month. now, i'll never have the chance to know what so many others did. his reputation preceded him. i am so saddened by his and his wife's undeserved and untimely death. so very tragic and such a loss to our community.

Nancy Wadsworth

October 20, 2014

The loss of Larry and Denise is heartbreaking. I was greeted with Larry's wonderful smile and a humorous clever remark every time our paths crossed at the Chefs Center. Larry will always be intertwined with my company as he helped from the very start. It continues to be a blessing to have known this wonderful couple. My deepest condolences to the family.

Ruby & Ruth Olvido

October 20, 2014

We met Larry in 2012 as he helped us start our bakery business. He gave us helpful tips, and made us feel at ease when we baked at Chefs Center. When he smiled he reminded us of 'Santa Claus."

El Camino College Small Business Development Center

October 20, 2014

We were very shocked and saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Larry and his wife, Denise. Larry taught some workshops for us in the past and was highly regarded by the SBDC staff and the attendees. Such a loss for the community and for their friends and family.

Leila Kumar

October 20, 2014

Larry you will be missed. We are so sorry that your life ended so tragically, while helping someone in need. Thank you for all you did at the Chefs Center of Pasadena.

Bobby Patterson

October 20, 2014

Gone to soon thanks for the teaching and the friendship.
R.I.P

Jorge Caughman

October 20, 2014

I too have been blessed; to have been able to work with Larry and hang with Denise these past few years. Larry gave me the oppertunity to do what we both love to do; helping others reach their goals. They truly were a loving couple, I will miss them dearly.

Janet

October 20, 2014

Many prayers and condolences to everyone who loved Larry and Denise. They brought such joy to so many people. Let us celebrate those beautiful things they gave to all of us. Such a tragic loss, but what great examples concerning how to live. R.I.P.

Mona Simpson

October 18, 2014

I was blessed to have the most wonderful brother in the world for 50 years.He always had a warm hug for me and was so sweet and kind. I just wish I made more of an effort to see him and phone him. Larry and Denise- I love you both from the bottom of my heart. You will never be forgotten. RIP

Renee Meston

October 18, 2014

I was the matron of honor in Larry and Denise's wedding. I was a piano student of hers. We became good friends and really celebrated life together. The very best time of my entire life was with them. The memories are incredible. One day Denise and I will sit together again at the piano and play beautiful music. I'll love you two forever . Love,Renee

Laura Santeler

October 18, 2014

Although I only knew Larry for a brief time, and only through Holiday dinners we were lucky enough to be a part of, I am very shaken by this tragic news. I pray for strength and healing to all who loved them.

Laura Pincus ( Santeler)

October 16, 2014

May the loved ones of Larry and his beloved wife and friend Denise carry you through your grief with the prospect of knowing Jehovah God has a resurrection hope in store after this candle's flame of a life where you can see each other again.

Samantha Thomas

October 16, 2014

It's been almost 10 years since I had Chef Bressler as my instructor. He was tough & no nonsense. Everything he taught me still resonates with me to this day. He will be missed.

Mariel Crow

October 16, 2014

We will miss Chef Larry & Denise so much. We always spend time with them at music concerts. It will not be the same going to shows without seeing and catching up with them. We love you forever Chef Larry & Denise.

TigerTom, Lani & Felicie Strauss

October 15, 2014

Larry and Denise were great people and dear friends. We feel blessed to have known them both and were touched by their kind, beautiful souls. We will always remember the great times we had and will miss sharing the good food and music with them. Rest in Peace.

October 15, 2014

Larry and Denise were wonderful people. Larry welcomed me, my husband and son into their family and we hold those memories very dearly. My prayer is that Larry and Denise's families can heal, I believe Larry and Denise would not want the families to be torn apart. With love from Darrell, Beth and Sam.

Constance Bauer

October 15, 2014

Sending love and memories of happier times to Ellen, Bob and Mona. I remember many wonderful holidays at your home and Larry was always laughing or getting others to laugh with him. I was so sad to hear this news and send you all love and cosmic prayers. Constance (Connie) Bauer

Pat Huffman

October 15, 2014

I was a friend of Denise Bressler for 30 years through the General Federation of Women's Clubs. Such a loving and caring woman and very talented. I am saddened by the violent way her life ended and I pray peace and love to her and her husband. May they rest in peace

Kirk Thill

October 15, 2014

I was a very close friend to Denise in high school. A few years ago we got in contact with each other by facebook. She was so proud of Larry and loved him so much. I had some brief conversations with Larry and found him to be such a wonderful caring man, with a great sense of humor. He always made me smile with his words. Denise was such a wonderful pianist and teacher and both of them made this world a better place. They were the kind of people that all of us were glad to have known. The tears will not stop for me yet.

October 15, 2014

Chef Larry -

You were a man of God - offering love and compassion to everyone. I'm lucky to have had you in my life, and will emulate your spirit. Now I am sure you are serving up great food and times in heaven. God Bless. Michael, Texas Fajita Co.

G Crask

October 15, 2014

I knew Larry during our junior high years in Illinois and spent LOTS of time at his parents house especially during the summers. Even then he liked to cook and would disappear into the kitchen and whip something up... the theme that runs through the comments here are true, he was a great guy, funny, listened very carefully to what you said, and would offer to help you out without you even asking. Re-reading my comments here, I guess this is the definition of a true friend. Rest in peace Larry.

Mike Connors

October 15, 2014

When I was 8, Larry was the first person to approach me and offer friendship when I was the weird new new kid in the class moving in halfway thru the 2nd grade school year. He loved his friends, shared everything, and was driven to make life FUN. We had some crazy times growing up (too fast, too soon) in junior high, and even crazier times in high school. My sincere condolences to Mona, mom & dad. All of us who got to know and be friends with Larry will always have fond memories.

Schellie Andrews

October 15, 2014

Dear Larry, Denise,
One of my fondest memories of Larry was his smile it was always warm and welcoming. Larry you made me laugh and more importantly you treat me with love kindness, and that I will never forget. Denise I never got the chance to meet you but I feel like getting to Larry means I got to know you just a little bit too. RIP.

Larry's Graduation from the CIA 12/16/83. Always a friend , You and your wife will be greatly missed.

October 15, 2014

Sheila Moore

October 15, 2014

Your zest for life has always been an inspiration to me. I've never seen a more perfect match than Larry and Denise, true soul mates. Even though there have been a span of time between face to face..... It was always just like yesterday. I love you both so much and your lights will forever shine in my heart and the numerous other lives you have touched. Until we meet again, I know the angels will be feasting in heaven.

Mark Smulson

October 14, 2014

It has been 24 hrs since I learned that I have lost my Brother and best friends Larry & Denise. It has been so surreal and confusing for me. Calls, Facebook posts, internet and TV all remind me what a tragedy this is and how much I will miss my Larry & Denise! The 2 most giving, kindest and gentle souls I have ever known. We have been through much "life" together. As I read and see so many hurting, it reminds me of how fortunate I was to be so close to Larry. From all of our holidays together, cooking, laughing...to our poker playing, going to many concerts, To our weekly Facetime calls,Their monthly stays here at what he called "camp Smulson" experiencing Nawlins together and to watch him with all of my kids being Uncle Larry & Aunt Denise. Truly an enormous piece of my heart and soul has been ripped away. Larry and Denise were such a huge part of my families lives. There is no way to express how much we will miss them. God and his Angels will never have a bad meal ever again and will always have the music playing! Till we meet again my beautiful Brother and Sister!

Brittany Hume

October 14, 2014

I'm gonna miss your warm hugs, kisses How much brighter the room got when you walked through our front door your smiling faces our laughs all the good times good food and good music I'm gonna miss you both I love you soooo much R.I.P

Robert M. Coleman jr.

October 14, 2014

Chef Larry was my garde manger instructor at Le Cordon Bleu, He was very patient man who enjoyed working with others. I will always remember him, as a true inspiration.

Michael Hillson

October 14, 2014

Although Larry and I were frequently at the same concert or gathering over the past decade or so, I rarely interacted with him directly and surely regret that shortcoming today. The times we did speak, he struck me as a truly kind and giving soul (and wholly amazing cook) who deserved every one of his great number of friends, all of whom are grieving such a sudden and tragic loss. My condolences go out to each of them as well as any family he and his wife Denise have left behind. My memories of Chef Larry are of his vibrant energy and enthusiasm for life. May these thoughts continue to shine brightly in his honor for eternity.

October 14, 2014

May love & light find you both for now you are free and dimensionless. Now you can go to Sierra or New Orleans & all points btw my boy & lovely gal...

Charles Quinn

October 14, 2014

You two touched so many, we all are grieving at our loss. We have our memories to be our solace. Only thing is, we wish for a lot more memories. The drive to High Sierra Music Festival will be long and empty without my copilot.

Alicia Boada

October 14, 2014

God Speed Larry and Denise. You have left a food world filled with broken hearts. Long live the legacy you created in your generosity.

Dizzy Miss Lizzy Shepard

October 14, 2014

Chef Larry was an amazing friend who enveloped everyone with love. Although we didn't see each other often, it was like no time had passed. He was one of the few people I felt I could be completely honest with because he was not only my friend but a part of my chosen family -- because he made sure I knew I was a part of his. Losing him and Denise leaves a hole but the charge to remember the lessons learned and forever follow dreams, be there for others, share the delights of music and wonders of being alive daily. And smile and laugh ... a lot. Chef Larry reminded me recently that dreams really do come true, you just have to work for them, but he's in my corner. I miss you, but I know you're forever in my heart and soul.

Joan McHugh

October 14, 2014

Chef Larry's camp was one of the Highlights of the High Sierra Music Festival. Music, food, & fellowship served with a big helping of love. I am a better person for having known you two. May light & love follow you wherever you are now.

MaryAnn Osley

October 14, 2014

May your souls be blessed with your admittance to the next life. You made such positive impacts on so many. God bless you both.

Andrea Henselmann

October 14, 2014

I last ran into Larry and Denise at the Troubador in LA. His warm hug and her sage advice always made night. The news of the their lives being cut short in such a violent way is just horrific. They were such wonderful and loving people. I will miss them terribly. Andrea

Cooking together at the High Sierra Music Festival

jeff shepherd

October 14, 2014

As a chef and personal friend to these two people there is no way to express the shock and sadness their sudden departure has on me. Laughter, love, light, music and good food were the order of the day every time we got together. The world is a much darker place today without these two in it. fare thee well my friends, fare thee well....

Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results

Make a Donation
in Larry Bressler's name

How to support Larry's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Larry Bressler's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more