PRG’s Larry Kellermann, who also served on the Wally Russell Awards Board, died Thursday August 11th. The cause of death was a heart attack.
As director of PRG's Permanent Installation Group, Kellermann oversaw the development and installation of entertainment technology solutions for a wide range of markets throughout the US. However, Kellermann was a lighting industry veteran whose career began in the early part of the 1950s when he worked at Century Lighting, a precursor to Strand Lighting, of which he was named CEO in 1973.
In 1974, Kellerman struck out on his own to open his own rep firm and over the next two decades worked on over 600 Broadway shows, including the legendary productions of Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and Miss Saigon.
However, Broadway was not Kellermann’s only domain; he worked extensively on a number of television projects including Good Morning America, ABC’s Nightline, and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, among many others. His career also included work in the world of construction for such companies as Tishman, Morse Diesel, ITT Sheraton, JWP, CBS, Hilton Hotels, and Princess Hotels.
"It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of my dear friend and colleague Larry Kellermann," says Jere Harris, chairman & CEO, PRG. "Throughout his long, distinguished career, Larry touched countless people, and he will be greatly missed. Larry had been part of PRG since the company’s inception. His skills, honed throughout more than five decades in the industry, helped our company serve its clients with distinction. Larry’s personal touch brought something extra to every interaction. In addition to his expertise, Larry shared with all of us his unique ability to make connections. He knew so many people that he was often the conduit by which we all shared information.
"On a more personal note, Larry had a unique passion for life and for our industry," Harris continues. "He was one of the most well rounded people I have known. In addition to the professional relationship we shared, Larry and I spent many evenings enjoying a good meal and a cherished bottle of wine and debating a broad range of topics. Larry was always someone who brought vast knowledge and stimulating conversation to a meal. I will miss those times--his energy, his talent and his wit. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Ellen, as well as his three daughters and their families."
Funeral services will be held at Temple Beth Abraham in Tarrytown, NY Sunday, August 14th at 10 a.m., located at 25 Leroy Avenue, Tarrytown, NY 10591.
Anyone who would like to share thoughts or remembrances of Kellermann should email Entertainment Design and Lighting Dimensions editorial director David Johnson for publication in a future issue.