Larry Clain B/Motion collector dies/cars STOLEN

[55chevy]

I need to start by saying we have all lost a great friend in the supercar world.. Larry Clain (pantera) died on May 18. He was a very close friend of mine and I'm sure many of you. Now comes more bad news.. I just got word his shop has been broken into since his death and all his cars he had stored in that shop have been stolen. Both 69/70 Baldwin/Motion Corvettes.. His race cars: 1969 SCCA B/P vette & Lola T-400 Can-Am Race car ( ex- Ongais F-5000 chassis)Now with Frissbee bodywork .. A Chaperell 5th wheel trailer with a 68 Vette body in it, and a couple other Corvettes (a 72 and a crashed 84).. all Stolen. Here is a link to the website he was making for his cars with pictures of several of them that have been stolen. http://home.swbell.net/vette-65/index.html If anyone is approached for any of these cars "for sale" please contact either myself directly or the Tulsa authorities. Keep an eye out for these cars!!
It's a sad day in the Supercar world.

[JChlupsa]

dont know what to say Ed, I got to talk with Larry for a bit at SCR and you could tell he loved the hobby and the folks who were involved in it as well. Sorry and sad to hear of his passing.

The cars though important are nil next to his passing but I still hope they catch the ones who ripped them off.

[MosportGreen66]

Ed, I am so sorry to hear of this news. My heart sunk when I read your post.

What a royal shame. Words cannot describe what I feel right now.

[55chevy]

I'm just sick...

[SS427]

Thieves are low lifes, thieve who steal from someone that has just died do not deserve a second chance!

I met Larry at SCR 3 years ago. A real class act and as Jeff said, someone with a passion for his cars and this hobby. Please let us know what happened to Larry. He posted on that very day and I had heard nothing bad since. I had no idea he might have even been sick. Good guy!

I will definitely keep my eyes and ears open. What a sick world we live in! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gif
Rick

[Mr70]

My God. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif
I have been waiting on a reply from Larry on some emails we exchanged last month.
I was wondering what happened.
I knew right away who he was when we first met him with you too Ed @ the Dragstrip @ SCR7,pulling that trailer,and later needing help rolling his Motion GT Corvette off the trailer & into the Convention hall.
We shared a brief drink together later on.
What a Nice Man and Genuine Character he was.
My prayers are with his Family.
Rick
http://www.yenko.net/reunion/SCR7999997.JPG

[69hurstSC]

good thing theres a place like hell for idiots like that.

[TDW]

I feel like I have lost a friend too. I never met him in person. I sent him a headlite bezel for his Nova a while back that he was looking for. He emailed me a few times to say how much he appreciated it. He sure seemed like one of the good ones. Condolenses to his family and friends.
I would kill the thiefs with my bare hands if I could get away with it. Slowly.

[Stefano]

Larry was a neat guy, to say the least. I remember him pushing his Motion GT into one of the SCRs, to share with all of us. It is a sad day on many levels.

[SS427]

At that same SCR event 3 years ago, Larry came up to Chad and my room after asking if we wanted to see some photos of his cars. About 2 hours later he left and it was well after midnight after about a 20 hour day. He never stopped talking and was filled with stories of his cars and his business. I only knew him a few short hours at that time and already knew he was passionate about this hobby. Very hard to believe.
Rick

[VintageMusclecar]

I'm at a loss for words. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

Deepest condolences to his family & friends.

Eric

[Postsedan]

Wow! Just terrible...I`d like to catch those bastards and hang them by there b#**s!

Dan.

[sYc]

So sorry to hear about the passing of Larry. A car guy through and through. He will be sadly missed at future SCRs.

It took a lot of caoxing to get Larry to bring the un-restored Motion Vette to the SCR, as he was afraid it would not fit in. I kept assuring him folks would "dig it", which they did. One of the most talked about cars ever at a SCR.


And thanks for letting us know about the stolen cars, hopefully we can help find who did this terrible act.

[Verne_Frantz]

My god! What terrible news. Not only that the hobby has lost him but some low lifes were waiting in the bushes to grab everything. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

If I may ask, what were the circumstances of his death? I thought he was a healthy guy.

a black day for the hobby indeed....... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

any pictures of his cars, etc would be very helpful so all of us can keep an eye out for anything that surfaces.

Damn, I just can't believe it......... There is no icon that can depict the low feeling I have..............

[69LM1]

We all need to be on the lookout, these cars will have to surface sooner or later. Then we can help get them back where they belong.

[Xplantdad]

Ed,

I am truly sorry to hear this. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

I first met Larry at BJ2005. He was there with one of his buddies from Tulsa. We hung out for a while and then he went to talk to George (who had the gold Baldwin Motion Vette going across the block that year)

I met Larry again last year at SCR8. On Friday afternoon, he introduced me to Kim Howie and to Ray Morrison (As I didn't have a clue who anybody was) Ray, Larry and I talked for a few hours out in the parking lot until Charley Lillard came up and informed us that the Banquet was about to start! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif I had planned to go to the hotel and change into more appropriate clothing...but while talking to these two great guys...I lost all track of time. I was forced to wear the "Charley Lillard" shirt to the dinner...

Charley was even nice enough to give Ray, Larry and I a ride across the parking lot in his rental car (Charley didn't need to use his GPS that time. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif)

I will remember the enjoyment that I had talking to Larry and I will truly miss him. He was a genuine good guy...and I am honored for having known him.

Thanks for the memories http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gifRest in peace Larry http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[njsteve]

Very sad to hear of his passing.

Do you have a contact for the law enforcement agency handling the case? Based on the value of the vehicles stolen, this may be of interest to federal law enforcement as well.

I know the various automotive magazines would be interested in getting the word out. CNN and the New York Times both did articles just last week on the million dollar muscle cars out there. I think they would definitely want some info. Get me the contact info and I will pass it along. PM me if you like.

[Xplantdad]

Good idea Steve! Let's get this information out ASAP!!

Ed, a number for the local Tulsa PD would be good, too (Like NJSteve suggested)

[scuncio]

I can shoot this awful news to the major magazines...let me know how I can help. Still in disbelief.

[Johnny Horsepower]

Only knew his posts and i am now very sorry i did not get to meet him.
My prayers to his family.

As for the ultimate scum..............karma's a bitch

[Zedder]

Unbelievable...Godspeed Larry. We'll all miss you...

[jfkheat]

I am very sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers will be with his family.
James

[John]

...our prayers are with his family
.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[Charley Lillard]

This really sucks. Larry really was one of the nice guys. It really was neat seeing his well worn Motion Vette at the reunion and getting a kick out of all the rust that fell off the sidepipes onto the trailer. I'm at a loss for words.

[Eddie M.]

sure sorry to hear about this....he was a neat guy
will it be possiable to get a vin # list of the cars?

[mhassett]

I got to talk to Larry at the Drag Strip the year he brought his white Corvette to the ReUnion and we talked at length about the Motion Cars.
Our Prayers go out to his Family.
Mark

[DarrenX33]

Today has been a horrible day for me for many reasons. I was hoping that I might unwind for a bit before heading to bed only to hear this terrible news about my friend. Larry and I had just been chatting about 200-s wheels. He had offered to help me find a set around his area. What a cool guy he was. I vividly remember that day when Rick and I helped Larry push his Vette into the show. He even let me sit inside it. I am going to say a prayer before bed for Larry and another for serious justice to be served to the low lifes who took his property.

God bless you Larry. You will be missed. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[camarojoe]

Man, that's terrible news... As said earlier, Larry was one of the "good guys". Always willing to help out others, share into and stories unselfishly, and many times he provided me (and I'm sure alot of you) with an enormous amount of information, always in his witty and charismatic way... he was a true "straight shooter", and truly a good guy. Even though I only knew him a short while, I feel like he was a close friend. My brother and I joked around and shared stories at the Supercar Reunion and I remember Erik and I talking on the way home about how cool of a guy he was to bring that car for us all to see... He modestly told us how he felt his "old clunker" wouldn't be well accepted in a room full of shiny, restored supercars, but I think we all would agree it was one of the coolest cars to look at within the entire convention center. His cars will turn up, and whoever did what they did will meet justice, but thats really insignificant at this point... its times like these when you realize how unimportant all the cars and material things really are, in the "big picture", they don't mean a whole helluvalot. Its the PEOPLE who make this hobby what it is... People like Pantera. He will be deeply missed.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif -JB

[sixbrl440]

Now from "the heard from less-than-often Tulsa guy"...

Bruce, that was me you met with Larry at the BJ.

Here's a bit more skinny...

Larry had three passions in life, aside from his better half, Dee.

Those were cars, racing and karaoke. The afternoon of the 18th, he called and asked if I would care to join him at his favorite club to sing. That evening I had other plans. Sure wish I hadn't...

Larry was not in poor health, worked hard all the time and was relentless in his making sure the people he cared about had all the help and things needed for comfort.

The night of his demise, he was preparing to sing karaoke in the club and just dropped. Massive coronary. He's never had heart problems in the 33 years I've known him.

One of the biggest holes I've had left in my life is the one Larry has left. To all who have posted, thank you. Larry was a great guy...

The number for the Tulsa PD is [918] 596-9222. This number is the non-emergency number and will likely get a secondary menu.

The theft was just discovered today, so the exact department handling it is yet unknown. The police and lawters and I were at the shop for the biggest part of the afternoon, compiling as accurate a list as was possible for their investigative team.

If any further info is discovered or contact is needed, please feel free to e-mail me, or Ed [thanks, Ed] and we'll try to keep y'all updated.

Lastly, but not leastly...I HATE THEIVES!!! The cars removed - the BM cars, in particular, deserve a better fate then they have heretofore received. Keep your eyes open, and again, thanks to all.

Perry Litchfield

[email protected]

[hvychev]

This is absolutely terrible news! Larry and his friend came to my home a couple years ago on there way to pick up the Nova he bought. He was a great guy and had a true love for automobiles. I will never forget when he brought his Motion Vette to SCR. A sad day indeed.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

As far as the low life that robbed him, they will get theres. It is obvious that it was someone that knew him or lived close to him. If those cars sat in that shop as long as they did and they just now were stolen it is pretty simple to figure out. I bet the Tulsa Police won't have to look far to find where they ended up. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[Late BrakeU2]

I never met Larry personally,but our backround is in road racing and I hooked him up with my friend John Morton for tips on getting his Lola/Frisbee together.Cool cat that will be missed-

On a lighter note anyone remember his Tilex cure for poison oak?
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/180883/page/0/fpart/1/vc/1
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/180883/page/0/fpart/1/vc/1

[quick-bowtie]

I never had the chance to meet Larry but did exchange a few emails with him on BM cars sad news and the theives that pull something like this what SCUM!!!!!!!!! Its gotta be a local guy that knew him and what he had to move in so fast. These guys need to be dropped off in the middle of Iraq and left for dead! I cant believe the crap people will do these days if we need stronger penaltys for people like this it wouldnt he happening so much. Everything is about the almighty dollar to these crooks we all need to pool together and put a reward out there someone will roll or have info if it get publicized enough. I throw in $1000 to the arrest of the heartless pricks that did this. What do you guys think about placing some ads in Hemmings and Auto trader???

[budnate]

well I just feel horrible...Larry was awsome we talked in length about cars and our love for Panteras...great guy!!!

how in the world can some morons take these cars and expect to do anything with them???? there all one of's??? I don't get it????

maybe his ex had them grabbed???? he mentioned more than once there was no love lost there.

[MrsBillyBobcat]

[ QUOTE ]
... its times like these when you realize how unimportant all the cars and material things really are, in the "big picture", they don't mean a whole helluvalot. It's the PEOPLE who make this hobby what it is... People like Pantera.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif -JB

[/ QUOTE ]


VERY WELL said Joe & I couldn't agree more! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

I met Larry at SCR-7 and thought he was a cool guy. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

I have been addicted to "Sundried Tomato & Basil" Wheat Thins since I read his post cookies and milk (http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=0&Board=lounge&Number=168524&PHPS ESSID=8320b85e628196925330a6c0a13b6046&fpart=1#Pos t168524) and bought some. They are GOOD! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

Thanks Ed & Perry for letting us know and I sure hope they catch the scum bags who stole his cars! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

May you rest in peace Larry! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

Rita

[Schonyenko2]

Damn, that just sucks. Larry was a really cool guy. Talked to him on the phone a few times about his nova, and got to know him better at the reunion. He had a genuine depth of soul. He not only liked cars, but was very concerned about the well being of others. He truly was your friend Ed, as he spoke well of you to me, and hoped all problems could be overcome. We have indeed lost a good friend in Larry.

[chads454Ls6]

As rick mentioned,we met larry at the reunion and had a great time chatting about cars,the old days,and his car dealership that he sold used cars at. Larry was a great guy and will be missed. It is hard to believe that there are people out there that once they found out larry had passed,all they could think about was how fast they could steal his cars. Total scum!

[resto4u]

I met larry at scr when he had his vette there. He was a very nice guy who had true passion for the cars. But what i remember most, is how friendly and genuine. I talked with him, and it was like he knew me already. Great stories and a great man. He will be missed!! God bless and prayers for the family. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif Roger

[Mr. T]

I really am a loss for words here, shocked is more like it. I was introduced to Larry by Bruce at Barrett-Jackson 05. Right after we started talking about cars and numerous other things, I knew he was a class act. We gathered around the 69 BM Phase III Corvette and had a great ole time, talking about what we so dearly loved, musclecars and supercars.

I met up with him again at SCR8, and continued on in our discussion and knowledge of musclecars. I remember him sitting beside me in the parking lot in front of the Holiday Inn, when all of a sudden his lawn chair collapsed and his rearend ended up on the pavement. We both had a good laugh about that.

Since I met him, and until the remaining years of my life, anytime I see a BM car for sale, or even hear the words Baldwin Motion, or Motion prepped Corvettes, Camaro's, etc, I will think of Larry. His knowledge on Baldwin Motion cars was top notch. I will miss talking with you Larry, like so many of us who came into your life, and your life into ours. You will be missed.

I wanted to share a touching part from one of the last PM's Larry sent me.

"I value you as a new friend like many of the guys on here I think I have found a new home."

Until we meet again Larry.....

Seems there are few people with morals anymore. A man who works all of his life to pruchase the cars of his dreams, and some pathetic looser rips them off when he passes away. How pathetic.

[COPO]

I enjoyed meeting Larry at SCR and listening to him share stories about his Motion corvette. He had a lot of passion about his cars and his passing is a great loss. God speed.

[enio45]

I dont know larry but recall his ID.....my condolences to his family and hope we can help recovering his cars.

[55chevy]

Larry was one of my best friends in the world.. The news of his sudden death shocked me more than anyone. He was an awesome guy and he was a better friend to me than any I've ever had. Larry's passion for the cars and the hobby was unmatched.. When it came to Larrys cars it was just him, Perry and me who touched them. It was the 3 of us that cleaned 15 years of dirt off his B/M Vette and brought it to SCR for everyone to see in its unrestored condition... and it was Larry's dream that the 3 of us would fix his 2 B/M Vettes up keeping them as original as possible and then show them to the world..

And for some sick "people" to just break in and steal the objects of Larrys dreams just makes me angrier than you can imagine.. With everything that was taken it was in no way a one man operation.. And it had to be someone in the "know". Not only were his cars stolen.. but his house broken into and the titles to them taken as well.. How they think they are going to get away with this I don't know.. Larry's cars were unique.. And have to be about worthless to a thief.. Any attempt to sell these cars or transfer the titles will surely bring down the law.. I would imagine.. and hope..

Hopefully everything will be recovered and the bastard sons of bitches responsible for this gets to spend lots of time with their new lover, big black bubba, behind bars..

I'm going to post some pictures of the cars that have been stolen in their current condition. I wish I had pics of everything, but I don't. Hopefully these will help.. and keep an eye and an ear out.. Let's at least hope we can return Larry's dreams to where they belong so they can live on in his memory the way he wanted.

Thanks guys

[55chevy]

This is Larry's 69 Baldwin/Motion Phase III GT Prototype car in the condition it is today.. Let's hope it's found and returned.

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210239-DSC03102.JPG

[55chevy]

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210240-DSC03103.JPG

[55chevy]

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210242-DSC03109.JPG

[Hylton]

I am both shocked and angry. Larry was the type of guy who had time for any car guy regardless of his own exceptional collection. He seemed to have time for everyone.

What angers me is that there can be no greater lack of respect for him and his life than stealing his cars shortly after his passing. He nor his family deserves any of this crap. Let's get the word out there asap and get the SOB's. Many of us owe that to him.....

[Jeff H]

Wow! I can't believe what happened to Larry. I never met him, but he always had some great information and experiences to share with us all. He will be missed. As for his things being stolen, that's just incredible. Hopefully they will be found quickly before they can leave the country or worse. Somebody must have know about him and his cars to know they had time to get in and take what they did. Let's keep an eye out for his stuff guys!

[55chevy]

This is the front of Larry's 70 Baldwin/Motion Phase III GT.. In the background you can see the side of the wrecked 84 Corvette coupe that was stolen as well.. It does not have a front clip on it and the frame is bent up on the driver side. It's otherwise a complete car. This is the only picture of it I have.

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210245-DSC03091.JPG

[TimG]

I'm sorry to hear about Larry's passing. I was thinking he may be attending the BRIC at Road America as it is a Can Am reunion. I've visited with Larry about Can Am cars and our love for them a number of times.
I'll be thinking about him that weekend.

[55chevy]

This is Larry's 70 B/M Phase III GT that was stolen. In the background outside the door you can see the Chaperall 25ft? 5th wheel trailer that was stolen as well. That is the back door to Larry's shop. It faced a fenced in yard. The thiefs cut that fence and took everything out of the shop through that back door. They had to put tires on that trailer to steal that thing.. This was no easy one man operation..
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210248-DSC03196.JPG

[55chevy]

This is another photo of the 70 GT in the condition it's in currently. Let's hope it's recovered and returned where it belongs.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210249-DSC03204.JPG

[55chevy]

Here is a rear shot of Larry's 70 GT.. in the background under the cover you can see his 69 L88 Racecar that was stolen. It has a small block in it and removable body panels. I'll post another picture of it as well.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210250-DSC03207.JPG

[55chevy]

Here is another pic of Larrys 69 L88 racecar.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210252-205611-%2377Hutchpadock.jpg

[55chevy]

Here is a pic of Larry's Lola T-400 Can-Am Race car ( ex- Ongais F-5000 chassis) Now with Frissbee bodywork ... This car was stolen as well.. The body work was off the car.. Not sure if the bodywork was stolen with it at this time. It had a smallblock in it as well and was all new.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210254-205609-Frisbee1.jpg

[55chevy]

Last one... This is the day we dug out the Motion and cleaned it up. This is Larry and Perry.. I was behind the camera.. Let's hope Larry gets some justice. He was one of the good ones.. His memory doesn't deserve what's being done. That is for damn sure.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210255-70ph3gt3.JPG

[Kim_Howie]

Ed,
Sorry to hear about your loss of a good friend. What a total shock. Kim

[PeteLeathersac]

This is certainly sad news about Larry....a black day indeed. .

I enjoyed a few yaks w/ him on some old racing stuff and although disheartened I am mostly sorry for those of you that have lost your friend and comrade. .

The situation of the cars....to think anyone could stoop so low is simply disgusting. . If an ex-spouse story or not it's sick and outright blasphemous to the man and the cars he respected. . Whoever it is deserves more than they'll probably ever get. .

Here's to you Larry! .

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif


~ Pete

[ORIGLS6]

Ed,
So sorry to hear about Larry. Although I'm sure it's hard for you right now, let me say that there are many folks here on this site who can appreciate what you're doing to help your long time friend.

The theft is unforgivable, and even moreso under the circumstances. As bad as it is, I still can only hope the thieves KNOW what they got. It would be even more tragic to think they are planning to 'part out' the cars, not realizing the historic significance of these pieces.

This is the "Good and the Bad" of a site like we have here. There is tons of information available and hundreds of friendships to be found, but there is also the opportunity for people like this to lurk in the shadows and prey on the unsuspecting. Sad, but an undeniable part of our society today.

We can all be thankful for what Larry shared with us. Seeing the B/M Corvette in it's original and unrestored condition brought smiles to countless individuals at the Reunion. Hopefully Larry set a precedent that will encourage others to bring those rare, unrestored pieces of Muscle/Supercar history back into the light for all of us to enjoy.

Godspeed Larry, and Thank You. You WILL be missed. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[BBIGG BLOCK 396]

Very sorry to hear about Pantera,I never met the guy but read many of his post on the site here.Very sad when you loose someone that loved the cars as much as he did.My prayers go out to his Family and friends.Sure hope the cars get recovered by authorities.Seems as though it will be difficult to do anything with these cars due to the type of cars they are.Justice will be served to the disgusting theives and may Larry rest in peace.

Bobby Dodson

[olredalert]

-----Also very sorry to hear of Larrys passing. Even on the computer he came across as a really good guy! As well, it is my fervent hope that the perps that took Larrys treasures rot in hell. Its almost as if these lowlifes literally saw Larry pass or possibly had been considering something like this theft before his passing. As much as its painful to type these words, you can bet that these guys are considering cutting these cars up. Hopefully they havent already started. Its way harder looking for parts but we should be leaning in that direction.........Bill S

[Steve Shauger]

This is a awful news. As been stated many times previous, Larry was a true gentlemen and enthusiast who would share his quick wit with anyone. Words cannot express the disgust and anger I feel towards the THIEVES.

[Canucklehead]

Very sad to here the news. I never met him but he seemed to be a great guy and a great asset to our community, he will be missed. As far as the theft goes something is fishy. This is no ordinary theft theres more to this story. I could see one car but everything gone??, no somethings wrong here.

[GM-26]

I am very sad to hear that Larry passed and furious knowing that his cars and property were stolen. When I was a "newbie" to this website, Larry had reached out to me. Seeing that I live on Long Island and the same town as Joel Rosen, he was hoping that I had some information about his Baldwin Motion Corvettes or whether I knew the cars from years ago or even some past owners. We spoke on the phone and through e-mails. Everytime, I would go to a local swap meet or car show, I would browse through the Corvette section in an effort to find a particular magazine that Larry was looking for or anything that may have pertained to his cars. His dream of restoring the Corvettes to their former glory, were never fulfilled. May he rest in peace. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/210275-motion2_4668.jpg

[sixbrl440]

All the kind words are crtainly appreciated, in Larry's behalf. He was, indeed, a prince of a guy whose memory does not deserve to be desecrated as it was by the theft of his "crown jewels."

As I stated in my previous post, I spent quite a bit of time where the cars were kept while the police and detectives "dusted" the logical spots and items for fingerprints. An investigation locally will definately happen. Heck the detective on site was not even a car guy and he was livid after the descriptions of the cars were given to him!!

As Ed so perfectly stated, it was Larry, Ed and myself. Kinda like the Three Musketeers. I know this - I am not fully in comprehension about Larry being gone in the first place. Seeing the empty building - of cars, anyhow - was like losing him all over again. He will be terribly missed.

Where the long reaching affect of the internet will be a bonus, in this case, is the cars stolen I would now imagine are not disposable. Tell all you know about this despicable act and hopefully the cars will be found and retrieved.

Thanks for bearing with me. I hate thieves!!

Perry

[396L35]

[ QUOTE ]
Very sad to here the news. I never met him but he seemed to be a great guy and a great asset to our community, he will be missed. As far as the theft goes something is fishy. This is no ordinary theft theres more to this story. I could see one car but everything gone??, no somethings wrong here.

[/ QUOTE ]
Sorry to hear about the loss of Pantera.. I agree with Murray, if you look at the pictures that were posted of the cars in the garage, it looks like it would take some time to get them out of there... Look at the facts, they stated that the enclosed trailer had no wheels on it??? Plus the corvette that was wrecked in the front?? Also the pictures show alot of stuff stacked up around the cars.. This looks like the theives have been there before... Where is the garage located??? Is it in the sticks or a very populated area??? Kinda strange everything is gone after his death??? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif I hope they find the cars... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Denis]

Anyone have any contacts with Hemmings? Their monthly muscle mag would be a good place to get the word out. Or maybe in that e-newsletter they mail around?

Any NCRS guys hanging out here? Good write-up in the NCRS monthly mag, with pics, would be another way to get all the Vette guys to keep an eye out.

[camarojoe]

Anyone who knew the cars were there, knew Larry was gone, how and when to get them all out without anyone noticing, AND knew to get into the house, which was in a different location. Its interesting they also knew WHERE the titles were for everything within the house...I'm no detective, but I'd think it would be a safe guess to say the culprit or culprits are people who had alot of information that random thieves wouldn't have.

[396L35]

[ QUOTE ]
Anyone who knew the cars were there, knew Larry was gone, how and when to get them all out without anyone noticing, AND knew to get into the house, in a different location, knew WHERE the titles were for everything within the house...the culprit or culprits are people who had alot of information that random thieves wouldn't have.

[/ QUOTE ]
Something smells fishy!!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[Charley Lillard]

How is it he died on May 18th and we didn't find out till a month later ?

[SS427]

[ QUOTE ]
How is it he died on May 18th and we didn't find out till a month later ?

[/ QUOTE ]

Thank you! Myself and several others have been asking this very same question. I am sure there are at least a few guys that would have wanted to attend his funeral at the very least.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gifRick

[njsteve]

[ QUOTE ]
Anyone have any contacts with Hemmings? Their monthly muscle mag would be a good place to get the word out. Or maybe in that e-newsletter they mail around?

Any NCRS guys hanging out here? Good write-up in the NCRS monthly mag, with pics, would be another way to get all the Vette guys to keep an eye out.

[/ QUOTE ]

I already forwarded the link to this site to the editor at Hemmings Muscle Machines and to the editor at Musclecar Enthusiast.

[ANDY M]

JMO, but I think the Customs people should be alerted, unless it's already too late. There are many private collectors overseas that would pay big $$ for cars like these, and nobody would ever know or see the cars for years.
Much easier to get them out of the country with valid titles before they were reported stolen, and the theft would not likly make the news.
Larry will be deeply missed, may his memory always be a blessing.

[PeteLeathersac]

I just checked back and May 17'th was the day Larry and I were last discussing some of his cars. .
I feel sick about this whole thing and just can't imagine the loss his close friends are feeling. .
There's a few other topics/postings today I'd be interested in commenting on however don't think I'll bother. .
Check his site out as there's quite a few pics there also a list of other cars that may jog someone if they hear anything. .
Anyone notice Larry's note at the bottom of one of the pages of his site? .

"Thats all folks....Thanks for stopping by"



~ Pete

[copo-2]

Just noticed this information passed along by Ed & Perry. Very sorry to hear about the passing of this fellow automotive enthusiast and friend. We had e-mailed and talked cars on different occasions, but until SCR8, had never put a face with a name. Not formerly introduced, I was listening to a conversation between a couple at the show. I knew in my mind, this was Larry? Sure enough, I was right, and we became instant car buddies.

Yes Bruce, I remember the enjoyable time together last year, never to be forgotten with Larry. To Ed & Perry, I can understand the great friendship and quality time you must have enjoyed? We will all miss Larry, Greatly!!!

Very sad to know that there are people that have very little remorse. These people have very little hope for the future? Hopefully these people will be caught for their evil deeds and punished appropiately? Ray

[Late BrakeU2]

There is little doubt in my mind that whoever did this crime has perused this board-I mean how hard is it to look at a guys sig,see his cars,and in a relatively small town like he was from call 411 and get an addy.I am in no way saying it was a member,but this site does display quite a bit of personal info.These cars were worth a small fortune and with ethics coming in a distant second to greed it's just another level up from restamps and fake tags.Hopefully this same site through it's network of members will lead authorities to these plundering scumbags-jmo

[Hylton]

[ QUOTE ]
There is little doubt in my mind that whoever did this crime has perused this board-I mean how hard is it to look at a guys sig,see his cars,and in a relatively small town like he was from call 411 and get an addy.I am in no way saying it was a member,but this site does display quite a bit of personal info.These cars were worth a small fortune and with ethics coming in a distant second to greed it's just another level up from restamps and fake tags.Hopefully this same site through it's network of members will lead authorities to these plundering scumbags-jmo

[/ QUOTE ]

I don't know - seems to me like an individual that is or was very close to Larry at one time. It appeared to happen quickly and not only did they seem to be organized around his shop, they also knew where he kept the Titles in his house! That is not the work of a stranger.


Ed and Perry,

You guys should rack your brains and try to remember as many associates of Larry's as you can. Try and remember anyone unusual or non trustworthy.

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
How is it he died on May 18th and we didn't find out till a month later ?

[/ QUOTE ]

Thank you! Myself and several others have been asking this very same question. I am sure there are at least a few guys that would have wanted to attend his funeral at the very least.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gifRick

[/ QUOTE ]

Let me answer this question and put this one to rest. First let me tell you how sick I felt hearing of Larry's passing.. I was one of his closest friends and I didn't get word he died till almost 2 weeks after he had.. My connection to Larry was with Larry... It wasn't uncommon for us to go a week or so without talking.. so I didn't think much of it.. Then after I'd called him a few times and just got the voice mail I started to worry.. The very next day Perry called me with the news.. Like I said, my connection to Larry was with Larry.. so no one else really knew to think to call me when he past.. So not even I got to go to his funeral. Though I wish I had..

As for the reason the annoucement of his death hasn't happened till now.. Larry died without a will.. His estate is in probate. And it was at the wishes of those involved to keep things private for the time being..

This dispicable act against Larry of stealing all his cars is the reason this is being made public..

There is no doubt that this was done by someone who knew Larry, what he had, and where to find it.. And hopefully that will aide in the capture of those responsible and recovery of everything.. Because that list of people "in the know" of what Larry had and where is short..very short.

I hope I've clarified a few things.

[PeteLeathersac]

I think Hylton may be right? . Sorry to offend if it's not but I really wouldn't be surprised if it's a woman's work....it really is 'never done', just like the saying goes. .

And what of Larry's L78 Nova....was it there too and part of the plunder? .

~ Pete

[SS427]

Thanks for clarifying Ed. Sometimes it is just frustrating to learn of a friends passing and not have a chance to pay respects. Nothing personal to you or anyone else. I did not keep in touch with Larry on a regular basis but did consider him as a friend.

I remember calling him laughing at him after he signed up on the Harrell web site using "SS427" as his signon. I called him only to give him some friendly poop since I don't own that name and was just teasing him. Larry being Larry offered to retract his sign on and change it to something else. We laughed and went on. Just another memory of the nice guy he was.
Rick

[Belair62]

Wow...this blows...he was a cool guy dammit !

[KNAPPY]

I read this post with great sadness. I have know Larry for about 3 years. He would come down to Fort Worth to Pate Swap Meet every April and he would meet up with me at my trailor where we would share stories about cars, people we had met, and life in general. He did not make it down this year because of bad weather so I was planning to go up there sometime to see him. Didn't make it in time.

God bless Larry and his Family, Ed and Perry I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. I will miss my friend Larry and Pate Swap Meet will never be the same for me.

Steve

[shor]

what a nice guy
he will be missed http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[69motion]

iv talked to larry just a while ago that sux rip my friend i hope they catch the scumbag jeff

[70-SS/RS-L78]

God Speed and Rest In Peace Larry.......
The scumbags will be found..

[hvychev]

The more I read this thread the more I get sick about what happened. There is definitely something not right about this.

Ed, I am curious why didn't you come on this site 2 weeks ago and tell everybody that Larry died? I don't mean to be out of order but seeing that you met him through this site and with everything you guys did together relating to this site it seems strange to me.

Could anybody access an obituary for Larry via the web or a news paper?

[Charley Lillard]

Frank....Per Ed.. "As for the reason the annoucement of his death hasn't happened till now.. Larry died without a will.. His estate is in probate. And it was at the wishes of those involved to keep things private for the time being.. "

[hvychev]

I apologize as I did not notice that statement. I am just mad that something like this could happen. I am shocked that the family involved would not want people that cared about him to know he died. As a matter of fact I would bet if we would have known about this the cars would NOT have been stolen in the first place.

When Dennis Hartweg died many friends rushed to Annies side to make sure she was not taken advantage of. It seemed to help her out a lot and she also got a lot of support in such a difficult time. Why did this not happen for Larry? He was a good guy that almost everybody liked. I bet there would have been a line of people that would have helped out his friends and family if we would had known. That is one of the great things about this club. If there was ever a member in trouble and in need of help they WOULD find it here!

[Tim Penton]

Ed (55chevy), I've investigated numerous auto thefts and alot of things are not adding up. Give me a call tomorrow around noon at 985-507-1373. I may be able to help give you some ideas that could help you assist the police and Larry's wife. I hate to hear when anything like this happens. I'm sure Larry is in a good place right now. God Bless him.

[Chevy454]

Man, this is still hard to believe...like others, I had to stay on Larry to bring his BM 'Vette with it's original "patina"...and needless to say, people dug that car...but I can't bear thinking of that car *without* thinking of Larry, and how when I saw him in person or talked on the phone he always seemed to be in a good mood, no matter what was happening around him. That old coot will be missed... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[mmcporter]

That's very sad that he has died. He was a nice guy who was knew his stuff. He will be missed on this board. Too bad about the cars as well--what a cowardly crime to say the least.

[ss427copo]

Well folks......in the final analysis, it is not what you have but who you are.....and by reading ALL these posts, this gentleman was just that...a gentle man. Our hobby is just the conduit to forged friendships.

Like with my 5/13 heart attack.....and your responses, many of you showed me what class and character you possess. For that, I again Thank You.

For Larry and his family....God bless you.

Jeff

[mssl72]

Wow. This is sad. My condolences to his family and friends. I can see by the comments in this post that a ton of his friends are here on this site. I'm truly sorry for everybody.

The theft of his cars made the hair stand up on the back of my neck and my stomach tense up. I was robbed just over a year ago. They broke into the house and went through everything and stole a bunch of stuff. Hearing what happened to Larry cars brought all those emotions back. That's just sickening. I would love to choke the life out of the thieves with my bare hands. If there's anything I can do to help beside keeping my eyes and ears open, please let me know.

[sixbrl440]

[ QUOTE ]
Well folks......in the final analysis, it is not what you have but who you are.....and by reading ALL these posts, this gentleman was just that...a gentle man. Our hobby is just the conduit to forged friendships.

[/ QUOTE ]

This brings another twist to the thread. As Ed mentioned, Larry died intestate. I'll not get into details, but the surviving, albeit distant, family members are being less than cooperative, regardless of no contact with them in the time I've known Larry. Aunt and her family is it.

At any rate, folks, make sure you don't die intestate. Get the wills written. Hand written, by you, is ok. If drafted, get it witnessed by two and notarized. Don't leave your friends in the awkward position of deciding your estate. We never know when our time is up.

As for the rest of the issues we on the Forum can attend to, it will be to simply think of all publications the theft can be listed in; to do so and keep out eyes open.

There are some bad people out there in the world. 'nuff for now.

Thanks again, on Larry's behalf, for all the kind words.

Perry

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
Not only were his cars stolen.. but his house broken into and the titles to them taken as well..

[/ QUOTE ]
Just re-read part of this thread...that line right there tells me it was an inside job, as someone had to know where the titles were...do Oklahoma titles require notarization? Might be worth someone's time to pass along the VIN #s to Joel Rosen as well...

[MosportGreen66]

I sent a PM to Ed with that exact statement Rob... This had to be an inside job. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[Supergas990]

First, I'd like to say that I'm going to miss his posts and input here. He seemed like wealth of knowledge. Condolences to the family.

Now, I hate to sound like the conspiracy theory guy, but has anyone considered the idea that maybe this happened because someone in the family was told/knew he didn't have a will? I've heard of close family members agree to cleaning out all items of value prior to the governement getting wind of someone's passing. In these cases they're just trying to keep the gov't from taking the stuff via death tax or just having it locked up by the courts for years.

I hate thievery, so if it's that I hope they get their due. If it's a move to screw the gov't, so be it.

Just something to consider.

Blair

[396L35]

[ QUOTE ]
First, I'd like to say that I'm going to miss his posts and input here. He seemed like wealth of knowledge. Condolences to the family.

Now, I hate to sound like the conspiracy theory guy, but has anyone considered the idea that maybe this happened because someone in the family was told/knew he didn't have a will? I've heard of close family members agree to cleaning out all items of value prior to the governement getting wind of someone's passing. In these cases they're just trying to keep the gov't from taking the stuff via death tax or just having it locked up by the courts for years.

I hate thievery, so if it's that I hope they get their due. If it's a move to screw the gov't, so be it.

Just something to consider.

Blair

[/ QUOTE ]
Blair lets hope that is the case...

[markjohnson]

That is the smartest thing that anyone has said yet in this post. I visited Larry back in March at this building during a business transaction and he showed me all his cars in this building. This building is located on a very busy street next to a car wash in downtown Tulsa. It would have taken several people, many hours and countless trips to take all these cars as they were buried behind much clutter. Thousands of people had to see this occuring. When one's time is up on this planet, material items lose importance. You can't take them with you. When Larry passed on without a will these cars no longer belonged to him. Sounds heartless but that's the way it is. Everyone should walk away learning something from this thread. That will be Larry's legacy. Those cars would have been tied up in probate court for years to pay for outstanding debt and taxes. We should all hope that the cars were whisked away by family members to safety. Let's face it, these were valuble cars that the government/courts would have loved to get a part of. I've got a feeling these cars will re-surface soon enough.

[sYc]

Even if it were family members, and/or friends, really does not matter in the eyes of the law/courts, to them it is still stealing. I am guessing there was a police report filed, so too late to do things under cover. Regardless, NOTHING was to be moved/taken without a court order.

If there was a will, everything is tied up until the probate courts says who gets what.

In Larry's case, with no will, must go through probate court, if not, who ever took the items could be in serious trouble. To get a clear deed, or to assign a title, will require a court order. Or someone will need to forge Larry's signature, and in many states, must be notorized, which complicates things even more.

If who ever took the cars forge's Larry signature to move the cars, they could be in very big trouble. Also, the buyer(s), who are guilty of receiving stolen goods. Worst case for the buyer is jail time, best case is lose the cars and their $$$.

I see this all of the time, where folks think they can go around the system, but rarly get away with it. Seems someone always feels they got short changed, hire a lawyer, and away you go. Or some innocent party goes to file a deed, or apply for a title and finds out that there is a probelm.

Take my advice, get with your CPA/attorney and get things set up NOW.

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
Even if it were family members, and/or friends, really does not matter in the eyes of the law/courts, to them it is still stealing. I am guessing there was a police report filed, so too late to do things under cover. Regardless, NOTHING was to be moved/taken without a court order.

If there was a will, everything is tied up until the probate courts says who gets what.

In Larry's case, with no will, must go through probate court, if not, who ever took the items could be in serious trouble. To get a clear deed, or to assign a title, will require a court order. Or someone will need to forge Larry's signature, and in many states, must be notorized, which complicates things even more.

If who ever took the cars forge's Larry signature to move the cars, they could be in very big trouble. Also, the buyer(s), who are guilty of receiving stolen goods. Worst case for the buyer is jail time, best case is lose the cars and their $$$.

I see this all of the time, where folks think they can go around the system, but rarly get away with it. Seems someone always feels they got short changed, hire a lawyer, and away you go. Or some innocent party goes to file a deed, or apply for a title and finds out that there is a probelm.

Take my advice, get with your CPA/attorney and get things set up NOW.

[/ QUOTE ]

Tom hit the nail on the head. I don't know "all" the details as I am not part of the investigation. But here is what I do know right now.. NOTHING should have been touched.. by anyone. Sometime between I believe it was May 25th I was told that the attorneys video taped everything in Larry's shop and then chained and pad locked everything up .. and 2 days ago when this was discovered ..someone got in and took all the cars.. So that gave these thieves almost 4 weeks to do this.. None of us ever thought something like this would happen..or trust me, I'd have stepped up patrols of his properties myself.. As far as it being an inside job?, Myself, Dee (Larry's widow) and Perry all think that as well. And I know that is being looked into by authorities. Like I said I'm not close to the investigation of this, so all my knowlege is second hand. I know Perry is closer to what's going on.. so if anyone can help with advice or any FBI guys listening or anything, contact Perry (sixbrl440). Or contact me and I'll pass it on.
I've givin Perry copies of all the photos I have from inside Larrys shop to give to those investigating this. Aside from that and getting the word out there to the public of what's occured, I feel like my hands are tied and there's not a damn thing I can do about.. I'm just sick over this and the loss of my friend.. It's like a f-ing bad dream!

[bkhpah]

I am very sorry to hear this news, he was a great asset to the site and the hobby. The stealing of the cars on top of it really turns my stomach. It takes a real piece of [censored] to do that. ..BKH http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gifhttp://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[KENNY_PASCOE]

I MET LARRY AT B/J IN 2005 AND AGAIN AT SCR O5. HE WAS A STANDUP GUY AND A ASSET TO THE HOBBY. MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. AS FAR AS THE ISSUE WITH HIS CAR BEING STOLEN, I THINK MOST OF THE POSTS HAVE IT NAILED DOWN.... KP

[PeteLeathersac]

After reading Ed's last post I thought it appropriate I offer an an apology to Larry's widow. . My previous comments of a 'woman's work' was more of a thought on the possible actions of ex-wives and not directed at Dee. .
Reading she is working w/ Ed & Perry trying to track down the crooks made me feel a need to clarify this and offer my apology. . Sorry also to anyone else that may have taken offence. .
My sincere condolences to Larry's family and friends. .

~ Pete

[musclecarjohn]

Wow...somebody wake me up,this must be a bad dream!

Seriously,I enjoyed reading Larry's postings and based on what I've read here,he was a standup guy who was highly thought of by all.People like him are what this hobby is all about.

Godspeed Larry... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[COPO PETE]

Wow, my condolences. I really enjoyed seeing his car at the reunion!
Peter http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[JoeG]

I just came down from my buddies place upstate and am really saddened by Larry's(Pantera's) passing.---I never met him personally ,but I learned quickly how determined he was about documenting his '70 B/M GT Vette as Joel's first publically released GT Vette as we would go back and forth thru PMs now and again trying to sort thru some facts.----I'm sorry to say we never could nail it down as 100%,but It was always great to talk to Larry who was an old BM fan like myself. I know he's in a better place and proably now knows the answer to his B/M GT Vette.-True Car Guy in every sense of the word http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif----My sincere condolences to his family--Joe

[Seattle Sam]

Like many of you I met Larry at SCR7, he was very outgoing and talkative, and humble. And as many have said, a friendly, knowledgeable, car guy!

He will be missed, our prayers ot his family and friends!
-Sam

[supercomp 8.90]

wow http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif i never met larry but by his posts i can tell he was a nice guy who loved the hobby, our prayers go out to larry and his family.-dave.

[GMC_Typhoon]

I talked to Larry some via email and PM's,trying to help him in his quest to document his New York Auto Show/magazine cover BM Vette.

Although my leads were futile,Larry was just glad to have a straw to grasp at,and seemed to very much enjoy the thrill of the chase.

IMO he was the ultimate car guy.He bought and held on to a couple of the rarest Vettes ever made,and enjoyed them for what they are. He never tried to capitalize on thier value,never had a bad word to say to anyone,and treated everybody he ever met like he would like to be treated. A rare breed indeed he was.

So I say don't mourn Larry's passing,because he lived a great life,experianced things that others can only imagine ,and brought joy to us regular car guys who could only dream of buying BM Vettes for $3200 dollars.He did his best.That's all you can do.

I'm sure the scum that defiled his legacy will be brought to justice.It's a shame it happened,but in this day and age it's not surprising.

[12bolt]

I have not visited the site for some time. Shocked like everyone else I am sure is my first reaction at his Passing. "Not Shocked" by the Grave Robbers. I certainly do not condone their actions, and I hope all is well in the end of the story. That said, Most Importantly I must comment on the Loss of Larry. He and I talked Real estate and cars a few times and how he had set himself up for Retirement. He was a Hard working Man. the kind it seems there is not a whole lot of anymore. He cared for his family and their futures as well. He was a good contributor to this site as I saw him post helpful comments many times. the Forum has undoubtedly lost something special that is simply irreplaceable. To his Close friends here on the Board, I understand this is a sad time and wish you all a brief mourning period. Enjoy this Day and the rest that Follow as none of us know when our last breath will be drawn. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[71-LS6]

I just came back online after a couple of weeks off, what a shock. Larry was a cool guy, I met him at the SCR last year, or the year before, talking corvettes with him was a blast. My prayers and condolences go out to his loved ones. As to his collection, I will tell everyone that I know. Rest in peace, Larry.

[sixbrl440]

Ok, folks...first of all, thanks for all the kind remembrances. I am sure Larry would have been humbled by them.

On to a bit of business...with caution.

Yesterday, I met with the detective assigned to the theft of Larry's property. There was more stolen than just the cars and trailer, but I am going to try to limit my post here to the vehicles.

The detective's name is Rick Eberle and is assigned to the Auto Theft Division of the Tulsa Police Department. I told him of Ed's and my posting of the theft to the internet, both here and the Mopar site I frequent. He said it was a good idea, as the general agreement here and in the detective's mind - according to him - is the theft was accomplished by someone close to Larry.

Rick's phone number is: 918-669-6560/FAX:918-669-6521.

I gave Rick a disc I burned with photos of the cars stolen and a list of the cars Larry owned and where I believe them to be located.

The unusual thing of this is Larry only had one set of keys to his building{s}. PERIOD! Noone has ever, in the 33 years Larry and I were buddies, been allowed onto his property[ies] or into his building[s] without his accompanying the person. PERIOD!

For a period of almost a week, following Larry's death, all his keys were, for the first time ever, in another's hands - NOT a relative! I'll go into no further details with who, just suffice it to say, it was a first. At any rate, the keys were finally anted up to the attorney retained by Dee - Larry's mate - after 6 days of the other party's possesion of them.

Larry had a Dodge Caravan - just a work truck - which contained tools of his trade and many other items. That van has not been seen since the night Larry died. It was whisked away "for safekeeping" by the same party who snagged Larry's wallet from his jeans, removed all the cash Larry had on his person from him, AND muscled the Gold Rolex Submariner off his arm! Same person, again, NOT A RELATIVE!

The next day, the red Dodge dually we used to tow the 1970 B/M car to the reunion disappeared from Larry's driveway to his home. Also, this other party was observed - by Dee ane myself - removing the titles from Larry's file cabinet, rifling the drawers of his office and getting into Larry's computer. The other party said he was removing all of this, and a few more items, for safekeeping. Same person and person's wife, again, NOT RELATIVES!!

Fast forward to either yesterday or Thursday, and a court order to remand custody of all Larry's titles and personal property to the Tulsa Police/Sheriff department.

At my meeting with Rick Aderle - here at home - he showed me the titles recovered. Among the titles were the ones for the 1970 B/M car and the title to the Black 1969 Larry believed to be a B/M. All of the titles were not returned and the other party still, after being served with the order, retains posession of Larry's van and Dodge pickup.

I am so frustrated, I don't know what to do. I personally have seen the vehicles in front of the other party's house [the pickup] on the street - yeah, it's safer - and the van is in his back yard.

I need ideas of what to do, guys. Neither Ed nor I have any real input or say-so about this robbery, except basically, what I have entered here being witnessed by me.

The thief used a key to steal the cars. The back gate to Larrys building was used for egress. It was chained and padlocked at the time of the discovery of the theft.

A key was used to enter Larry's house. I put a big hasp and padlock up after that, but the damage had been done. I am LIVID, but frustrated.

I respond best to e-mails at [email protected] or, call me.

Send me an e-mail, tell me who you are and you get my phone number.

Thanks for responding to this, folks. I am beside myself.

Perry Litchfield
[email protected]

[ QUOTE ]
sure sorry to hear about this....he was a neat guy
will it be possiable to get a vin # list of the cars?

[/ QUOTE ]

I think for now, until all the titles have been accounted for and a few more loose ends are tied up, the VIN list will be better not revealed. Maybe in time...

[MosportGreen66]

If you know where the vehicles are, surrender the location and theif's name to the Police and let them take care of it.
Isn't that the best way to handle this situation? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[Verne_Frantz]

Perry,
I just had a thought. Since the cars are now stolen and a felony investigation is in progress, the investigating officer can contact the NCIB with the VINs of the Corvettes. That will produce (at least) the original selling DEALER of the cars. It won't help recover the cars but I recall Larry was very interested in uncovering the history of the cars. In his honor, it certainly would be nice to pursue that information.

Verne

[Mr70]

I was thinking the same thing Verne..

[Xplantdad]

GREAT idea Verne! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Verne_Frantz]

I believe someone also suggested sending the VINs to Joel Rosen, which I think is a superb idea. Not to ask for documentation, but perhaps someone in the future may send him the same VINs for validation. Then the trap will snap shut on the rat.

Verne

[55chevy]

As Perry said.. Some of the titles have been recovered.. but the cars are still gone.. pray they stay in one piece to be either surrendered ..or recovered .. Hopefully before too much time passes.. I am as livid as Perry on this.. I've witnesses Larrys dually and van myself.. just as Perry described.. We made the rounds yesterday and everything else Larry had seemed unmolested.. Let's hope it stays that way.

[55chevy]

BTW... If any person or persons involved in the disappearance of these specific cars or knows of their current whereabouts is monitoring this board ... The reason you are starting to sweat so much now.. is because the heat's comin. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif And hell's comin with it. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif

[Mr. T]

Sent you an email Perry.

[poolhustler]

I don't understand.........

If the identity and location of the theif is KNOWN and the location of the vehicles is KNOWN, why can't the LEO's wrap this up pretty quickly???

Can someone please enlighten me!

Thanks,

Russ...

[MosportGreen66]

[ QUOTE ]
I don't understand.........

If the identity and location of the theif is KNOWN and the location of the vehicles is KNOWN, why can't the LEO's wrap this up pretty quickly???

Can someone please enlighten me!

Thanks,

Russ...

[/ QUOTE ]

Russ... I'm right there with you. Unless the person who stole the van and dauly truck is a different person who stole the cars. But even so, lock up the guy who stole the van and truck and maybe, by fate of luck, this clown knows the location of the cars and maybe the person who stole them too.

[Chevy454]

Removing anything from the estate is a MAJOR "no no"...until the judge gives it the green light, everything is to *literally* be locked up, and under the supervision of the court/executor/public administrator...

[AutoInsane]

I did not know Larry but from what all of you wrote about him a great person has passed away. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

It would seem the thief's identity is known. I do not understand why (if all or some of the Titles have been recovered) there is any confusion on whom has the missing cars. It would seem blatantly obvious that the person who had possession of them and the keys to the building as well as Larry's truck and mini van is the culprit. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

I hope especially for the sake of his wife that the situation resolves itself and she can get on with trying to come to grips with his passing and start to heal.

This does bring to light that some of these Super Cars have become exceedingly valuable and means should be taken by the way of secure garages with security systems to safeguard them.

Ironically if the thief in this case had the keys security really does not matter.

[resto4u]

It appears to me the police have the info needed, But have to work with the courts and further investigate to make a solid case. You do not want to rush things and have them slip through the fingers of the law. They also may be doing surveillance or working with federal authorites. Also, please get a NICB report on those vettes in honor to larry. We do really owe him that! Roger

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
Also, please get a NICB report on those vettes in honor to larry. We do really owe him that! Roger

[/ QUOTE ]

What all will a NICB report show?? Larry already knew and had proof both of his Vettes came from Baldwin Chevrolet. His '70 had the Baldwin/Motion documents in it when he bought it in 1974 and he got the tank sticker off his '69 showing it came from Baldwin. Larry's quest was for previous owners of his '69 to gather further info on it, pictures, anything else he could find before taking it to Joel to document as it actually being the Orange/Black car on the cover of 11/69 Cars magazine and Joel's prototype GT.

As for now we just all wait to see when and where his cars surface.. if ever.. Pray they do and in one piece. What happens to them after that will be up to the Courts. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif At least we know that authorities are in possession of the titles to them now...

[Verne_Frantz]

I'm sorry. I didn't know Larry already knew both came from Baldwin. I thought that was information he was still searching for. As for the NCIB report, I had a cop friend in Chicago go in the basement and look up my '62 for me before they tightened up access. All it showed was the original selling dealer name, address and dealer number. If at any point in time a car is reported stolen, then the owner's name and information is entered along with that VIN info. That way if the car is recovered, the owner can be contacted and will receive his car back. It will be confiscated with no recourse from it's current owner.

Verne

[oboym]

Larry c. Clain ....our prayers are with his wife and family

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h36/oboym/MVC-002S.jpg

[Belair62]

Great pic of Pantera !!!

[55chevy]

I miss that son of a bitch...

[jackal]

I did not know Pantera, my condolences to his family and friends thanks jp

[markjohnson]

Enough of this drama already. Larry's computer and filing cabinets rifled through and his titles and keys stolen while people that are supposed to be his friends witnessed the entire thing and these friends continue to drive by these "stolen" vehicles that the police see fit to do nothing about. Did I read this right? Then if I did I'm sorry, because you're not selling me this story. There's obviously another side to this tale that we are not being told about. Larry told me in person recently that he had a kitchen fire and lost several titles. Why hasn't that come up yet? If by chance he hadn't transferred anyone of these titles to his name and then lost that title in the fire, wouldn't ownership revert back to a previous owner?

[Steve_Hoog]

Mercy.... I had no idea. Andy just wrote me to tell me, and I'm in shock. I don't get the newspaper here and had no clue. I haven't heard from him at all in the last year, so I don't know what happened and have not read all this thread yet. But I'm in shock of what I did read.

Larry was a great guy, at least in the last few years that I knew him. We talked a good deal a few years ago, and he was actually the only one from this board I ever met.

What a shame.

[Steve_Hoog]

I drive by the building on Sheridan once a week, and the last time I paid any attention he had the front entrance blocked by several difficult to move objects.

I have no idea what happened to his cars, but did take a cheerful grin at the bumper sticker on his web page.

I have instructed my brother and best friend years ago to come straight over to my house and get all my goodies out when I die. Don't morn, don't cry, and don't waste time. I don't want my Ex wife getting her hands on anything, and certain people to get certain things. I don't want greed of one person or the courts deciding who gets what. I have no clue if Larry had any such preconcieved notations, but that may be possible.

[sixbrl440]

[ QUOTE ]
Enough of this drama already. Larry's computer and filing cabinets rifled through and his titles and keys stolen while people that are supposed to be his friends witnessed the entire thing and these friends continue to drive by these "stolen" vehicles that the police see fit to do nothing about. Did I read this right? Then if I did I'm sorry, because you're not selling me this story. There's obviously another side to this tale that we are not being told about. Larry told me in person recently that he had a kitchen fire and lost several titles. Why hasn't that come up yet? If by chance he hadn't transferred anyone of these titles to his name and then lost that title in the fire, wouldn't ownership revert back to a previous owner?

[/ QUOTE ]

Mark, I have no idea who you are and frankly don't care. What I do know is the facts as I have laid them out. If you have a positive contribution, such as watching for the cars to "re-surface" or helping out by posting this theft on other sites and in publications, then that is fine. Please do so.

The items stolen from Larry's were taken - other than the titles and the pickup/van [supposedly for "safekeeping"] - after the house and buildings were thought secure by the court-appointed administrator. The return of the items was ordered and some were surrendered. All items taken were not known by the Sheriff's Department when the order was served. I believe the list is now much more complete and the person will be served with a detailed list requiring surrendering the items.

This response is an update for the readers of the thread who are concerned for the preservation of equitable justice.

As for your snide posts, Mark, as I pointed out, if you cannot be an aid to this, please refrain from depressing the keys on your keyboard. You are not aware of what has happened/is happening. Until you are "in the know" as Ed and I are, kindly keep your speculation to yourself.

By the way, Mark, are you more "in the know" [as your posts seem to intimate] than you could be by reading what has been posted about this scumbag theif's desecration of my friend Larry? If you are, maybe you need to be interrogated, as well. If not, keep your conjecture to yourself. It clouds the issue.

[markjohnson]

Hey Perry, if you want to turn this into a witch hunt and threaten me with interrogation than we'll take this off-line. YOU HAVE A PM.

[WILMASBOYL78]

Heard about this tragedy while we were at Gm Carlisle...very sad and disturbing. I spoke to Larry a number of times about his BB Nova and other hotrod issues. He did mention a kitchen fire in one of our chats awhile back. Hopefully there will be some positive outcome that sets things right. My condolences to friends and family.

wilma

[sixbrl440]

A little more right has been made.

Following the updates to the TPD, the pickup truck and the van have been recovered and the "other" party has been set up for a formal questioning and possibly to have the premises searched. I geuss it takes a while to get a search warrant. The detective in charge of this has been great in his communications.

Maybe through the questioning of the guy a few lights will get turned on and some questions answered.

Still have a lot of property to recover, but moving forward.

Thanks to all who have volunteered their help and condolences. It is greatly appreciated. Keep it up.

[70LS6454]

Sorry to hear this my Condolenses to his family.May he rest in peace.Hope someone catches the thieves too.That is terrible.

Ray

[Motion Camaro]

<font color="#666666">I'm sorry to hear about the untimely &amp; unfortunate passing of an internet friend.
Always having helpful words &amp; funny sayings.
Larry will be missed by all.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif Heres to you, for all you've left with us. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif



BTW: Great pictorial done for the July frontpage. </font>

[55chevy]

Just a quick update... I spoke with the detective yesterday. To date the location of all of Larry's cars and parts that were stolen is still unknown.. They are working hard to find out who is responsible and following up on known leads and looking for new ones. So I'm just asking everyone to keep their eyes and ears alert should some new information pop up by word of mouth or something show up for sale in local auto traders or ebay or somewhere else on the internet. Thanks everyone. I have a feeling this is long till over...

[Michael4yah]

It's Lynchin Time!!

[PLATINUM6BBL]

just checked in here for the first time in a long time. Sorry to hear of the loss of Larry, may he RIP.

As for the theives, well enough has been said already. I hope the "wrongs" are "righted" soon. As fo info, is it possible to be able to use the satellite cameras to see if anything can be picked up? I read in Reader's Digest that they used the camera's to see if they could pick up anything "strange" in relation to the BTK killings.

Lon

[Verne_Frantz]

Are there any updates to this terrible situation?

Certainly, the importance of what has happened has not been forgotten. I just came back from SCR9 and have we all forgotten the warm feeling we might have had if Larry's cars had been there again?

Verne http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ooo.gif

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
Are there any updates to this terrible situation?

Certainly, the importance of what has happened has not been forgotten. I just came back from SCR9 and have we all forgotten the warm feeling we might have had if Larry's cars had been there again?

Verne http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ooo.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Verne.. I'm trying to find out if any progress is being made in finding Larry's cars.. Unfortunately since I was only Larry's friend and it's not my situation, I'm not exactly the first person to get any updates to what's going on. I'm just hoping like the rest of you that this all turns out good with the cars being safe and justice being served.. But you know how fast the wheels of justice can turn........ http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif I just hope the cars surface..in one piece... I know the titles to them have been recovered.. I'll try and find out more and let everyone know.. Larry may be gone but he won't be forgotten. And I hope his Motion cars are recovered and made to live on in his memory the way he wanted them to be.. However and by whoever that may happen. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif

[resto4u]

I wish a story like this would be on the world news, justice must be served!

[55chevy]

I spoke with the investigator who is handling this case, Rick Eberle of the Tulsa Police Department.. Nothing that was stolen from Larry's shop has surfaced yet. I sure wish someone who knows something would read this and come forward. I don't know what to say anymore at this point.. It's just depressing and infuriating at the same time.. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

Moderators..is there a way to change the title of this thread from "Ok guys.. I have some super bad news.. Please help" to something like "Larry Clain Baldwin/Motion car collector dies/cars STOLEN" or something like that??? Maybe a new title on the main index page will get some new eyes looking at this thread and broaden the search effort.

And again if anyone has heard anything somehow please give Rick Eberle of the Auto Theft Division of the Tulsa Police Department a call or even cantact me if you want.
Rick Eberle's phone number is: 918-669-6560/FAX:918-669-6521

thanks everyone

[x Baldwin Motion]

dear ed i am very sorry for the loss of your friend Larry. I just found out yesterday as I was browsing the boards (I'm new to this and get lost on these threads). I first talked to him over a year ago when another friend sent me a link to his quest for info on his cars. Prior to that I had no idea that the internet was used by car guys for so much info. So basically it was Larry that has connected me to this site and an incredible amount of people, info, entertainment and brotherhood. Though i was unable to help identify his car (I didnt start working in baldwin until 1973) we did share several communications and I found him facinating. I am also traumatized by the news of his cars being stolen, is there any news on this ( a current thread?)Does his wife need support? please keep me posted and know he will be truly missed. Chris http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[Dave Rifkin]

Have there been any new developments regarding the search for these two stolen Motion Corvettes?

[55chevy]

No new developments.. All the cars from his shop including the Baldwin/Motion GT Vettes and other parts are still out there somewhere STOLEN.. Larry's estate has been settled and as far as I know everything he had will be auctioned, don't know when. And his benificiaries will each get 1/3. Thats all I've heard. I've just been sickened by the whole thing and Larry's loss and what's happned to his cars has really left me in a place with little desire for this hobby right now.. He was a great motivator and friend when it came to these cars.. I have a room in my house where I have all my car stuff... magazines and books organized... model cars..etc. looks like a car library... and I ain't been in there in months... It's just not been a good year. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[Jim_Becker68]

My guess is that they may show up in a country that is far away from the long arm of the law.

Stealing cars and shipping them overseas has become a big issue.

[olredalert]

Ed,,,The only thing I know how to do is to tell you to be posative. Larry would want that. It is a tragedy that he has passed and a tragedy that his cars and belongings disappeared but also a tragedy that you are not living the way he would have wanted you to. I am going thru torture right now because my friend and partner in "Red Alert", Terry Carney is about as sick as a human can be and still be on earth. Cancer has hold of him and just doesnt want to let go. Terry needs posative attitudes around him at all times because its so easy to get down in a situation like that. I have actually found the whole experience to be much easier to understand and get through by being as posative as I possibly can. Hope this helps. Say a prayer for Terry as he desperatly needs it.......Bill S

[DarrenX33]

Bill- I know Terry and am aware of what has been going on with him. I have felt really bad about it. I just heard an update today and understand that Terry is convinced that he will beat it. This attitude is the best to have during a situation like this. I am rooting for him.

Sorry to changes subjects.. Ed, I agree with Bill. Larry would probably sock you in the head if he was here now. If Larry is watching he wants you to be happy. Try your best and in the meantime hopefully the creeps involved with the theft will get there's. I'd say that is my Xmas wish this year... Merry Christmas Pal. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[55chevy]

I don't mean to sound down or negative.. Just haven't been thinking about the car stuff much recently.. My kid and other things have been filling my time lately. But don't worry.. I'll be back. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif And thanks guys.. Hope you ALL had a great Christmas.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Eddie M.]

You to Ed and have a Happy New Year http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[TimG]

I'm heading to Chicago next week and I hope Terry is up for a visit. I know that he really wants to be in Florida for the big auction in one month. He still likes talking cars and that's a good sign.

[55chevy]

Hey guys... it's been almost a year since we lost Larry.. I just spoke to Perry (Larry's oldest friend) and he told me nothing has been recovered and it sounded like even the investigation is going slow or even been put on the back burner so to say.. I don't know what to do.. I was hoping the authorities and the people in charge of this would have made some kind of progress by now on the leads they had in the beginning.. That doesn't seem to be the case.. So what do I do at this point? How do I get the word out there farther on these stolen cars and is it to late to even do so? I was staying out of it to let the authorities handle everything but it doesn't seem like anybody is doing jack sh!t anymore.. Larry's estate has been settled.. Perry told me appointed crews where just taking things from his house and throwing them in a dumpster.. and everything Larry owned, that appears to be of any value by whoever the court appointed to judge that, is slated for auction. With the proceeds to go to the 2 leaching aged family members that crawled out of the woodwork 2 weeks after he died ... Some aunt and her 2 middle aged sons that tried to weasle in and take everything Larrys mother had when she passed away a couple years ago... people that Larry personally told me he disowned long ago.. and only 1/3rd to go to the love of his life that he never got the chance finish his plans with and marry. All I can say is this is a Fuking disgrace... But I feel like I'm caught between a rock and a hard place.. Would making this theft front page news just secure the destruction of these cars?? Would it secure their recovery? Would it do anything? I don't know what to do.. So I'm asking my friends for help..

[AutoInsane]

Try sending the story to Kieth Martin at Sports Car Market magazine. He sure seems like a real car guy and if he does a story on it, it may be picked up by some other media. Worth a shot right?? I would think making this story more widely known could only help to bring the criminals to light. Someone who knows someone must have heard or overhead something about these very rare cars being stolen.

http://www.sportscarmarket.com/about/index.php

Maybe an article in Hemmings as well??

[owners2]

Ed this is without a doubt being caught between a rock &amp; a hard place.Front page news would probably be bad &amp; might have these cars parted &amp; destroyed.If the cars were recovered, who would probably retain ownership?I think the only way to get these cars back in one piece would be if somebody just so incredibly rich(that money just didn't matter &amp; had a greater love for the hobby) offered a no questions asked reward for the safe return of these cars(which of course would take major news coverage) .But who should the cars go to? The person who would offer the reward money of these cars to be safely returned in whole should recieve these cars! I feel this is probably a possibility or just wait and possibly years from now something just falls into place.I wish i had the correct answer for you about how to get back your friends cars,Jeff

[AutoInsane]

Good point about the chance of the cars being parted out. But is it better for the cars to be stuck away in a garage for many years because the person who stole them cannot move them or get the word out there on these cars in hopes of someone realizing what they are and that they are stolen??

I do not know the correct answer to this dilema..... I just hope they are found. If they are who do they belong to?? The relatives who crawled out of the woodowrk????

[55chevy]

What I do know is that the titles to both Baldwin/Motion Phase III GT Corvettes as well as several others were recovered and are in posession of the Tulsa authorities that are on this case. If the cars are ever recovered I'm sure they will remain "evidence" for awhile.. as to who owns them after that?? I guess that is up to the courts. I just know there is alot of my own blood, sweat and now tears tied up in both of those BM cars.. as well as a couple others he had me pushing around, getting dirty in and cussing at.... as Larry would well tell you if he were still here.. And I just want them found.

[joey]

Wow I cant believe that not even 1 car has been found!

[RichSchmidt]

I have had many things stolen over the years,and sooner or later the truth comes out.Most of what I had stolen was parts,but a friends car was stoeln out of my shop too.Everything was revealed sooner or later.I ended up working on 2 different cars that had parts that were stolen off my car{which wasnt stolen just stripped in my driveway}.
Here is the real kick in the teeth.The car that was stolen out of my garage was pulled over by the cops the night it was stolen{we didnt know it was gone for a week}.The car had no registration or insurance,but since it was a hot rod and didnt look like a street car and the cop didnt feel like busting the kids ballz,he let him go because the kid said he was only driving it a few blocks to his garage to work on it.The cops told us who had it as soon as we called it in stolen,but they refused to go look for it since they car was old and had no paperwork other then a title so it was junk to them{the kid who owned it had over 10 grand invested in an 11 second drivetrain and the car was MINT}.The kid who stolen it went MIA for a few months then was arrested for something else so we couldnt get to him.A few months later he was driving a clean 80 malibu with a beatin and choppin 406 under the hood and a 12 bolt with very distinct modifications to it.After I inspected the car on the street and verified it was built using the stolen parts we waited down the block for the kid to come out of his house so that we could jump him.After a while long wait we made like we were leaving and drove around the block and caught him taking off in the car.A high speed chase persued,and I guess I built that 406 a little too good since we didnt stand a chance of catching him and he almost killed dozens of people in the process.We never saw the car again and I only saw the kid drivng by once after that in a brand new pickup truck,and he moved from Jersey to Florida after that and a while later his obituary was in the paper.So the mystery of where this car and the parts went will remain unsolved.I think I may have the engine block out of it since I recently purchased a fresh.040" over 400 block from a local machine shop that was painted the same blueover orange as the engine that was stolen,and both engines were from 1973 pasenger cars.I struggle with the idea of what to do with this engine,but I have no proof,and I did pay good money for it,so I guess it is mine.

As for the cars that were stolen,it is a shame since in parts the cars are practically worthless compared to what they are as a whole.Even if they were tagged or otherwise altered,they would be worthless since most of them are fairly high end cars that would be impossible to document with altered VIN numbers.so basically somebody stole a million dollars worth of cars and could only stand to profit about 50 grand in parts value.what a shame.

[BBIGG BLOCK 396]

I know how you feel.Back in 1968 I had a 57 chevy 2 door Hardtop black/white.I bought the car a roller and the previous owner had 1967 GTO interior modified to fit this car and it looke really nice.I went to Bud Moore Chevrolet and bought a brand new 327/300 HP engine and a muncie 4 speed trans,both in factory crates.I lived with my sister and brother in law and he helped me get the 57 going.And GO it did.It turned out to be a really fine little 57.About 2 months after the 57 was running I wake up and get ready to go to work one Monday morning and the 57 is gone,I thought my brother in law had taken it to work so I was going to drive his 59 t bird.Then my sister came in the kitchen and I asked for the keys to the T bird.She asked what for so I explained that my Brother in law had taken the 57 to work.She proceded to explain that he was sick and not going to work and was still in bed.Well I called the Police,they came and made a report and that was the last I ever seen the 57.It was gone forever.We knew a lot of people and a sharp eye was kept out for the car but we never seen or heard about it again.I was a poor kid growing up and I had worked my ASS off to get the money for that kind of a car.I had a regular job,I shined shoes every saturday all day at a local barbershop,did a few lawns,helped others work on there cars etc.I did not go out and have a good time like all my friends because I was saving "ALL" my money for a nice car and when I ran across the 57 Belaire that was the one I wanted.I spent about $850.00 for the car,engine and trans just for some LOW LIFE to steal it.Till this day when I see a black/white 57 Bellaire 2 door hdt I look at it very close!I had the title to the car for years and years and finally when my home was destroyed in the flood in 1994 it was destroyed.I know I will never see that car again.

[Verne_Frantz]

At least you didn't almost run down a dozen people trying to get your car back!!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

Believe me, the parents who lost a kid by getting run down on the highway never get over it.

[John]

anybody know this car?
.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet...1QQcmdZViewItem (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Corvette-69-Corvette-Mako-Shark-Baldwin-Motion-Yenko-Dana-Nickey_W0QQitemZ330135610117QQihZ014QQcategoryZ616 8QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
anybody know this car?
.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet...1QQcmdZViewItem (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Corvette-69-Corvette-Mako-Shark-Baldwin-Motion-Yenko-Dana-Nickey_W0QQitemZ330135610117QQihZ014QQcategoryZ616 8QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Can we keep the focus of this thread on Larry and his missing cars please?

As far as an update goes.. Last I was told is the investigation is still ongoing... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[John]

Sorry Ed, I was just wondering if this may have been one of his cars....I want all of us to keep looking for those cars ...

[sixbrl440]

I spoke with the estate administrator [I have a few other titles...] a few days ago and he advised me that the investigation is moving closer. He would not go into details - I tried a few slanted questions to get to the crux of it, but he wouldn't budge.

I have a call in to the detective conducting the investigation and I am awaiting word.

Sorry about the gaps in communication, but life has thrown a few curve balls and I don't want to spew anything but verified information.

For what it is worth, Rick - the detective - is pretty much of a bloodhound. Good recovery record.

[Xplantdad]

GOod to hear that it's moving forward!

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
I don't want to spew anything but verified information.


[/ QUOTE ]

You also don't want to put out anything that could hinder the investigation or tip off the ass hole thieves before they get 'em.. There's no telling who is lurking around keeping an eye on this... possibly the thieves themselves.. Somebody always knows something.. I just wish that somebody would do the right thing in this case. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[JTH74]

I hope they recover these cars intact, and nail these low life criminals to the wall, and put them in a cell with Tyrone so they can be his love slave!

[sixbrl440]

A little news as to the disposition of the estate Larry left.

It is going to be handled by a local auction company. Personal effects, tools, cars [unfortunately, not the missing cars], shop equipment, engines, trannys, carbs, everything.

I don't know how many here on The Supercar Registry befriended Larry for his duration on the forum, but I do know this:

Larry once told me he would rather set fire to everything he owned than let his brothers or aunt's family get their hands on it.

That being said, I am going to confer with Ed, after I get my daughter back home to Texas [she stays with me for the summer months] and we will see about the most appropriate way for you folks to be privy to the unbelievable stuff the blood-sucking lawyers hired by "the other side" of Larry's family have decided will be sold.

I may be jumping the gun with this, but I am really hostile as to how this has been handled. The only reason I am coming forward with even this is for Larry's girl [wife] Dee. She has been awarded 1/3 of the proceeds of the estate. Larry would have wanted her to get the benefit of what he left behind, not relatives [by blood] who shunned him for the majority of his life.

I fear there wont be much left, what with the primo cars having been stolen. The goodies need to go into good and appreciative hands, not junkyard operators. I mean no offense with that comment, but y'all know the difference in an aluminum head and an iron head. Larry had nice stuff he had saved and bought for the past 32 years I know of. The scumbag lawyers don't have the sense to realize a "do it all" auctioneer is not the way to go. Scheduling is coming fairly quickly, but not nailed as of yet. Any suggestions are appreciated.

To stave off any comments before they happen, I am not doing this for my own gain. The only gain I might have derived would have been to get this house [the one I live in]I already bought from Larry 3.5 years ago [on a handshake - long story - you had to have known Larry] by buying it from the estate at appraised value. Now the scumbucket lawyers have decided that the offer for that has been rescinded. Even the houses and commercial shop are going to be auctioned by this auction company. I personally think something is fishy with the auction company, but it may just be my loathing of these lawyers. Have I mentioned I am annoyed?

If y'all think this post is inappropriate, feel free to delete it. I am hot!! Nuff said.

Anybody wants to contact me, please do it via e-mail. I will not go further with this until I have spoken with Ed.

P.S. Anybody want a relatively quiet roommate? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif

[kwhizz]

In the "Old" days......We had a "Justice" system........Now we have a "Legal" system.........Nuff Said............(Did "I" ever mention I dis-like Lawyers?)

Ken http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[PeteLeathersac]

Post deleted by Belair62

[sixbrl440]

Ok, further update.

Went to a disposition hearing [yet another] today concerning Larry's estate. It is confirmed by the probate judge. A local auction company [ironically, Mr. Ed's auction] will be handling the auction[s].

Here is a link to the website.

Mr. Ed's Auction (http://www.mredsauction.com/)

The better the turnout, the better Dee will be. Larry would appreciate spreading the wealth of his goodies to fellow SYC members, as well, I believe.

[AutoInsane]

[ QUOTE ]
Ok, further update.

Went to a disposition hearing [yet another] today concerning Larry's estate. It is confirmed by the probate judge. A local auction company [ironically, Mr. Ed's auction] will be handling the auction[s].



[/ QUOTE ]

I would start a new post when you have the date of the auction to get the word out there!

[GiveMeTimeMachinePlz]

i'll take it that at this point, there really isn't much chance of finding his cars in one piece anymore is there? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[bulletpruf]

[ QUOTE ]
In the "Old" days......We had a "Justice" system........Now we have a "Legal" system.........Nuff Said............(Did "I" ever mention I dis-like Lawyers?)

Ken http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

I can do without generalizations like that. Yes, I'm a lawyer, and not the only one on the site, I'm sure. I've put a lot of criminals in jail and I've helped a lot of fine Americans, as has my father, who is the finest man that I know. And before you wave the flag in a lawyer-bashing post, you might want to think about the lawyers who are here in Iraq right now who wear a camouflaged flag on their right shoulder.

Scott http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif
1st Cavalry Division

[Ngtflyr]

Sorry Scott but the generalization is pretty accurate based on my dealings with lawyers and the so-called Justice system. I'm sure there are a few good ones out there but they are few and far between. If you want to defend your profession I'm sure you will have ample opportunity to do so. Obviously since you are a lawyer in the military you aren't in it for the bucks, but that is the exception to the rule. I've seen lawyers deliberately causing legal action was clearly not of any benefit to either client with the intent to drag the case out so the lawyers could pile more fees on both sides. There is nothing just about the American Justice system. I only hope to never be a participant again and if I never talk to another lawyer it will be too soon. Good luck with the remainder of your tour and keep your head down. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[bulletpruf]

[ QUOTE ]
Sorry Scott but the generalization is pretty accurate based on my dealings with lawyers and the so-called Justice system. I'm sure there are a few good ones out there but they are few and far between. If you want to defend your profession I'm sure you will have ample opportunity to do so. Obviously since you are a lawyer in the military you aren't in it for the bucks, but that is the exception to the rule. I've seen lawyers deliberately causing legal action was clearly not of any benefit to either client with the intent to drag the case out so the lawyers could pile more fees on both sides. There is nothing just about the American Justice system. I only hope to never be a participant again and if I never talk to another lawyer it will be too soon. Good luck with the remainder of your tour and keep your head down. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Dave - I disagree with your comment on the American justice system, among other things, but in the interest of staying on topic, I'm going to hold my fire.

Scott

[kwhizz]

Scott..........99% of Lawyers make the other 1% Look Bad.........You must be in that 1% group..........

Ken http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[x Baldwin Motion]

this is the worst case of hijacking I've ever seen. lets take this outside and scrub these post's off of Larry's thread. thanks Mods.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
this is the worst case of hijacking I've ever seen. lets take this outside and scrub these post's off of Larry's thread. thanks Mods.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[/ QUOTE ]


I was just about to say...

Jeff can you or one of the mods move the lawer argument posts somewhere else and let's keep this thread on topic please?

[kwhizz]

You are right.......I'm Sorry.............

Ken

[Belair62]

...the measure of a man....I don't think we need to delete or move anything anymore. Just continue with Larry's stuff from this point k.

[Rixls6]

It looks like November 10th is the date for auction.
Link: http://www.mredsauction.com/auction_detail.php?ID=372267

[55chevy]

That would be it.... I encourage everyone who can make it to come out and bid. I believe 1/3 of the proceeds go to Larry's widow, Dee. Also the 69 Chevy Nova that is listed is a documented numbers matching L78 4spd bench car. Gold/black interior with low miles. I believe in the 7000 range. It is apart and needs a complete restoration finished. There's also many other rare parts listed. Stuff I know he was gathering for his Baldwin/Motion cars. Aluminum LS7 heads and such. Looks like his Pantera will be there also. I think he told me it had a rattle in the motor when he parked it. The 80 Elcamino listed I think is really an 84 and is a Super Sport. It sat at my place for awhile. It needs a motor and a paint job. The '97 Dodge 3500 ext. cab, Cummins, auto &amp; '93 Aluminum car hauler, 8 x 20 is the Red one many of you seen him use to haul his Baldwin/Motion Vette to Supercar Reunion 7. It's tough to see it all come to this.. but let's at least get as much of his stuff in the hands of his friends as possible. I wish I had the money... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[x Baldwin Motion]

How disturbing to see a list of Larry's stuff being sold and the funds not completely going in the right direction. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

A real reminder to have all your affairs in order to protect those you leave behind.

[Mr70]

.."Also the 69 Chevy Nova that is listed is a documented numbers matching L78 4spd bench car. Gold/black interior with low miles. I believe in the 7000 range. It is apart and needs a complete restoration finished"...

Larry bought this Nova from a friend of mine up here.I was surprised when he sold it,and told me a guy down south came and picked it up and nothing else...end of story.
A few days later Larry posted on this site about his new acquisition..this Nova.

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
.."Also the 69 Chevy Nova that is listed is a documented numbers matching L78 4spd bench car. Gold/black interior with low miles. I believe in the 7000 range. It is apart and needs a complete restoration finished"...

Larry bought this Nova from a friend of mine up here.I was surprised when he sold it,and told me a guy down south came and picked it up and nothing else...end of story.
A few days later Larry posted on this site about his new acquisition..this Nova.

[/ QUOTE ]

and now it's in an estate auction.......... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

And yes it is upsetting that Larry didn't have his affairs in order and only 1/3 of this goes to his widow.. (a couple greedy estranged family members stuck their nose in it after seeing his obituary and I'm sure the state got theirs).. This is NOT the way Larry would have wanted it, that is for damn sure. Not to mention the stolen cars that have yet to be recovered.. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[55chevy]

[ QUOTE ]
It looks like November 10th is the date for auction.
Link: http://www.mredsauction.com/auction_detail.php?ID=372267

[/ QUOTE ]

Have another look at this.. Photos have been posted on the site.

I hope to see some of this stuff make it into the hands of Larry's friends on this site.

[55chevy]

A little more info on the cars that I know about.. The 65 Corvette I believe Larry said was the 11th car built and 1st one with disc brakes. (don't take this as gospel btw, I'm going from memory here)..

The 69 Camaro they list as a Z28 I'm pretty sure is not a Z28. It has a built 350 in it 4spd. I think it has a 12 bolt with 4.10s.. but may be a 10 bolt. I can't remember. Has a metal cowl hood. RS grill but was not orginally an RS car. Pretty much needs completly restored. Larry said it ran very strong.

The 91 Lexus was Larrys driver and was in pretty nice shape.

The 72 and 73 Stingrays were two of the cars we moved around a few times getting the Motion cars out and when Larry switched storage facilities. Both cars need the fiberglass refinished.. and pretty much restored.. Most All the cars have been sitting a long time.

The 82 GMC Flatbed truck runs and drives. It's yellow. 350 4spd with the granny low. Dually

The 79 Chevy 4dr dually has a 454 /automatic in it but wasn't running. It sat for a long time as well.

The 78 Z28 is wrecked. There are a couple threads in the "for sale" section where Larry was trying to sell that one with pics posted.

I guess the list of parts speaks for itself.

Btw, I'm not involved in this auction. And I only learned of it myself this morning when Rick P. posted the link. Just trying to help out with what I know about some of the cars. I hope to see some of you guys there. Hopefully I can get lucky and come home with something to hang on to.

[55chevy]

Is anybody going? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[John]

How did the auction go? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[Allen Brown]

I've just been told about this thread and Larry Clain's sad death last year. It's awful that his cars haven't been recovered but I may be able to help with efforts to find one of them, the Lola T400/Frissbee. I run OldRacingcars.com and we have a page dedicated to the Lola T400 (http://www.oldracingcars.com/f5000/lola/t400.htm). This page comes out top of any Google search so if this car is offered, chances are that any potential buyer will read my page before they buy. Larry's car is the only one which hasn't been located so there is no chance of anyone being able to bring this car to the market without raising suspicions. I was about to alter the page to state that the car was stolen but then had a second thought - should we be more cunning about what is put on the page in an effort to flush the car out? If whoever has it realises that he has no chance of selling it, it may well be parted out instead and then we'll never find it.

I am open to suggestions. Maybe email is best: allen[at]oldracingcars.com. Maybe the mods can delete this post once I've made contact with the appropriate people to take this forward.

[65cobra]

test

[Verle]

I went to two auctions of Larry's stuff.

The first had the remaining (not missing) cars, lots of parts and a lot of stuff from his business.

The cars all sold high. The 65 Corvette, given condition was worth about $20K, it bid to $28.5. The old Camaro was the best deal at about $5K. The C3 Corvettes were all in poor condition and sold for more than they were worth. The 69 Nova sold for $12.5K.

Some of the parts brought a good price but some went cheap. Not everyone knew what they were looking at. There was only one Rochester FI there, a hybrid, 65 plenum with 63 air and fuel meters and a 63 distributor. Larry had more Rochester FI units but they were missing.

There were body parts from the frisbee but no car.

I knew Larry since about 1963. Larry had no wife, no children and no will. The courts, lawyers and auction company got most of the proceeds of the sale. The auction company charged $50/day each for storage of the cars for over a year. Only the 65 Corvette brought more than the storage charges. The little left over from the sale will go to an aunt and some cousins.

Let that be a lesson to all. Make preparations for your estate to make sure it goes where you want!

Verle

[Xplantdad]

Thanks for the update Verle...I miss Larry. He was a kind hearted guy. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[69LM1]

[ QUOTE ]
The courts, lawyers and auction company got most of the proceeds of the sale. The auction company charged $50/day each for storage of the cars for over a year. Only the 65 Corvette brought more than the storage charges. The little left over from the sale will go to an aunt and some cousins.

[/ QUOTE ]

Wow. Sad day.
Hope the others cars show up.......

[65cobra]

Knowing Larry my entire life he was very particular about who he let know what toys he had and especially particular and cautious with who he let into the shop! the cars, trailer etc. could only have been stolen by someone that Larry knew and trusted, someone with knowledge of the layout of the shop etc. what a shame! I'm trying to attach 3 pics of Larry racing the 69 vette at Hallet, we parked the car soon after this race and moved on to the J2000 that he only raced a few times before hanging up his helmet. Rest in Peace!!!

[65cobra]

Well I've tried to copy and post the pics but I'm too dumb to figure out how to make it work. I can copy and paste to an email but it wont work here, can anyone tell me how?

[65cobra]

Well I was able to post the pics in the members photo section if anyone is interested? enjoy

[Dog427435]

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t114/dog427435/Super%20Chevy/Larry_1.jpg
-
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t114/dog427435/Super%20Chevy/Larry_2.jpg
-
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t114/dog427435/Super%20Chevy/Larry_3.jpg
-
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t114/dog427435/Super%20Chevy/Larry_4.jpg
-
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t114/dog427435/Super%20Chevy/Larry_5.jpg
-
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t114/dog427435/Super%20Chevy/Larry_6.jpg
-

[L-79 Nova]

Very sad story, no will, what a shame. Ron...

[Verle]

The auction company informed me that $50/day is not correct.

Under threat of lawsuit I hereby withdraw any comments I may have made about any auction company at any time at any place.

Verle

[MosportGreen66]

Ed-

I hate to rehash a sour subject for you, but do you have new correspondence or updates? Thanks,

-Dan

[55chevy]

no I don't sorry. I'm out of that loop now.

[GiveMeTimeMachinePlz]

I'll take it nothing else on this subject has been discovered?

[sixbrl440]

I've been a bit reluctant to add much in the past few months, but the probate has been settled. Dee did get her slice. The cars are still on the hot sheets, but to no avail as of today.

Still a lot of unsettled personal stuff - with me - but the probate is over.

[Yellow 69 z28]

Have any of Larry's cars been recovered? Check out this guys car collection. A few cars fit the description...

Mathews Collection (http://www.mathewscollection.com/index.htm)

Maybe someone can verify.

[70CitrusZ]

Wow.
That auction company would be one to avoid. Lawsuit. Ha Ha.
Go ahead idiots sue me I dare you. Ha Ha. This threatening stuff makes me laugh. They are just trying to intimidate. Another reason to completely avoid using that auction company. Why not just ask politely for a retraction? but no....threaten to sue...

[AutoInsane]

Any update? Was Joel ever contacted with the VINs of the stolen cars? At some point in time someone will try to certify them.

Was the story ever sent to Hemmings or Sports Car Market? Good story for the legal files section of SCM.....

[GMC_Typhoon]

Bumping this for Larry. Hope the cars are recovered and the perpetrators prosecuted.

[earntaz]

Those SOBs need to understand &quot;the night has a thousand eyes&quot; ...

[Steve_Hoog]

I still drive by his shop; seeing it makes me think about all this and puts a sour mood on whatever day it is.

[Verle]

As of July 2016 I have heard no reports of any of Larry's cars being recovered.

[Craig_Maiorana]

Is there a way someone could get a list of vin #'s or a list of cars? I'd love to catch someone slipping with a stolen car and call the police on the spot

[Tracker1]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Verle</div><div class="ubbcode-body">As of July 2016 I have heard no reports of any of Larry's cars being recovered.

</div></div>

Hiding with Seven Juliano's '70 Mod Top Hemicuda probably

[earntaz]

... and probably on the same container ship ...

[55chevy]

I'm glad to see this thread is still a sticky at the top. Still hoping Larry's cars are recovered and the thieves brought to justice. I'd love to see those Baldwin/Motion GT Vettes of his done some justice. They were his life (beyond installing pools lol) Still miss the guy.

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Thanks for that Ed and you're so right on all counts!
Posting the Vins as Craig noted above is a great idea and could help anyone Googling the #'s land here.
RIP Larry.
:flag:


.

[Astock]

Good friend Ed.

[x Baldwin Motion]

Missing still

[GMC_Typhoon]

TTT. Larry was a cool guy. I talked with him a bunch when he's trying to research the black and gold motion Corvette. Is damn shame his stuff got stolen.