https://youtu.be/UY-t4lyBVRo
Lawrence (Larry) Jay Weinberg, the former founder and first owner of the Portland Trailblazers and a major contributor to the founding of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) passed away on Jan. 1. He was 92.
His family sent a message to the Journal stating, “It is with sadness that the family and friends of Larry and Barbi Weinberg mourn the passing of their beloved “Larry,” affectionately known to his loved ones as “Gamu.” After a valiant years-long battle with bone marrow cancer, Larry succumbed to his illness at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, surrounded by his adoring family.”
Weinberg was a successful nationwide homebuilder and leader of the Jewish community. He was the founder and president of the Larwin Group Companies, former President and CEO of the Portland Trail Blazers NBA franchise, and past chairman of AIPAC.
Following his passing, AIPAC issued a statement mourning his passing and saying, he “was a deeply respected leader in the pro-Israel community. Larry and his wife, Barbi, were critical in forging the movement to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and the Jewish state. Their dedicated efforts over many years educated scores of political and community leaders about the importance of our bipartisan alliance with our democratic ally. Perhaps most importantly, Larry’s example inspired his family to join him in pro-Israel activism.”
Weinberg was also a recipient of the Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge, and the Bronze Star for meritorious service in WWII.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Barbi Weinberg, his children Jeff and Susan Weinberg, Jan and Phil Zakowski, Jimmy and Leslie Weinberg, Julie and Rand Fishbein, and multiple grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
