Lawrence Bandoni

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Bandoni, who left us on Saturday, March 8th, 2025 at the age of 92. He was born on Saturday, June 11th, 1932 in Albuquerque, NM.

Larry was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, survived by Linda Bandoni, spouse of 55 years; children, Keith Bandoni, Lenae MacPhail, husband, Kevin, and Leslie Balthrop, husband, Jason; grandchildren, Sophia and Ian MacPhail and Gracie and Eva Balthrop.

Larry was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Italian immigrant parents. He attended St. Mary's Catholic School from Grade 1 through 12. In high school, he played as catcher on a National Championship Baseball team. After graduation he was drafted to the Minor Leagues where he spent the next two years as a catcher before returning home to his family.

Upon his return he went to work for National Distributing as a liquor salesman and attended University of Albuquerque. He then began his career as a stockbroker with Hyder & Company where he would dedicate the next 28 years.

For three decades, Larry was an active member of the Albuquerque Trap Club. He loved shooting sports, hunting, playing golf, and fishing. He spent every summer in Chama fishing with his family and friends.

Larry and Linda moved to what's now the Huning Castle area in the early 70's. For 54 years, Larry enjoyed participating in the City of Albuquerque Luminaria Tour. Every Christmas Eve, along with his kids and grandkids, he would set up over 2000 luminarias in the neighborhood for locals and tourists alike.

Larry supported his children in all of their endeavors. Keith in Junior PGA, Lenae in dance, and Leslie in 4-H. Larry enjoyed countless summers with traveling junior golfers, dance competitions, and county fairs and livestock shows. Larry and Linda were dedicated advocates and supporters of Bernalillo County and Socorro County 4-H participants.

Larry has a strong Catholic faith. He and Linda are longtime parishioners of St. Therese of the Infant Jesus Catholic Church.

A Rosary will be held at 4:00 pm on Monday, March 17, 2025 and services will immediately follow at 4:30 pm at FRENCH- Lomas.