The Buffalo Bisons family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Larry 'The Peanut Man' Owens. Owens passed away on Sunday at the age of 71.

"Larry Owens was the first person that the Bisons hired prior to the opening of Coca-Cola Field in 1988. Throughout the years, he became an esteemed and beloved fixture to all of our fans and everyone in our organization. All of us will miss him deeply," said Jonathan A. Dandes, President of Rich Baseball Operations.

"Larry 'The Peanut Man' had such a warm and infectious smile, and his love for people made him a ballpark favorite as well as an integral part of the Bisons Baseball Experience. He will forever be missed," said Mike Buczkowski, Vice President, General Manager of the Bisons.

Larry had been a fixture at Coca-Cola Field every year since the ballpark opened in 1988. He offered regular, salted and Cajun peanuts to fans in the concourse of the ballpark near section 104 for nearly three decades. More importantly, he connected with every one of his customers, using an amazing memory to recall names and ask heartfelt questions. For many Bisons fans, Owens' stand was the first stop upon entering the ballpark.

On the rare occasion that Owens missed a game, he would be sure a family member continued his tradition of quality and friendship. He was also often seen at the ballpark early on game days, making sure everything with his stand was exactly how he wanted it.

-the herd-