Larry 'Dr. Funk' Anthony Feuerborn

Larry ‘Dr. Funk’ Feuerborn passed away early Friday, September 25, 2020, at the age of 70.  He was a life-long resident of Norman, skilled musician, and devoted husband, father, papa, and friend.  He was a man of rhythm and ritual: consistency and commitment. 

He started playing music and forming bands when he was 13-years old, leading to a lifelong love of music that made him a permanent fixture in the Oklahoma music scene.  He committed himself to the craft of laying down some consistently funky vibes as a bass-player for bands such as Harvey and the Wallbangers, The Turbans, Maya, The Curb Feelers, and The Blue Cats.  He was most recently a member of Smiling Vic and the Soul Monkeys.  Music was a vehicle for him to express himself and share his joy for life with others.  He loved looking out and seeing people--from strangers to his grandkids--grooving to what he helped create. 

He served in the Army and the Army Reserve.  He has had a life-long career in the HVAC industry, most recently working as a Territory Manager at Carrier Enterprise.

He was committed to Norman, and as a proud Normanite would proselytize on the city’s behalf to anyone who would listen.  He knew Norman better than the back of his hand, and--knowing every backroad and side street--could somehow travel from point A to point B in ways and at speeds no one thought possible.  He loved the history of Norman and could recite a memory or interesting fact about almost every place he stepped foot in.  He knew and loved Norman, and everyone seemed to know and love Larry. 

Sooner football was ritual to Larry.  As a season ticket holder for more than half his life, his commitment to the program was just another example of his commitment to the joys of his life.  He rarely missed a home game, and OU-Texas was a holy day.  

But none of this compared to his commitment and love for his family and friends.  The time he shared with his wife, Robin, every day was sacred.  Their phone exchanges, even for the small stuff of life, always had to begin with an expression of his love—"This is Larry"--those were the rules. As a father and Papa, his love was consistently known; he did not hesitate to tell you how he loved you, and somehow made each expression personal. 

Larry was a skilled craftsman, and seemed to know how to build and fix anything and everything.  His home is a testament to his craftsmanship and commitment, as there are reminders of his work throughout, all as an expression of his love for the people it housed and held.  He was especially proud of his pool, and it was an oasis for his family and friends.  Everyone was welcome, and Larry tended to it in ritual commitment, so he was sure that it could serve its purpose: to offer refreshment and respite to those he loved. 

He lived like he played: he was steady, consistent, committed, and a little funky.  He was constant and a cornerstone to the lives he was part of.  He will be terribly missed. 

Larry is survived by the love of his life, Robin Feuerborn; his step-daughters, Jennifer, Dana, Jordan, and McKenzie; his four grandchildren, Connor, J, Wilder, and Leona; his nephew, Steve, his wife, Paula, their son Nathan; and many more lifelong friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Clement and Anna Feuerborn; sister, Shirlene; nephew, Michael; and Aunt Dot.

In lieu of flowers we would love to provide kids with the joy of music lessons. Partnering with Norman Music Institute and Jeremy Thomas Quartet Private Lessons we will be setting up scholarships in Larry's honor. Please donate here https://www.gofundme.com/f/larryfeuerborn

An outdoor musical memorial will be held at Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City on Saturday, October 10th, from 4:00-7:00 p.m.   If you would like more information email soulmonkey5060@gmail.com.