With great sorrow Kentucky Equine Research (KER) announces the death of lifelong horseman Larry Lawrence, Ph.D., the company's senior equine nutritionist. Larry passed away on December 13th after a long battle with cancer. KER would like to express its deepest condolences to the Lawrence family, particularly his wife Theresa, also a valued member of the KER family.

Lawrence joined KER in 2002, when he accepted the responsibilities of leading the KER technical staff and providing support for the company's stateside and international clients. "I had the pleasure of knowing Larry for over 25 years," said Joe Pagan, founder and president of KER. "I will always remember Larry as a superb horseman, a talented nutritionist and a friend. Larry had a rare gift that allowed him to communicate complex nutritional principles in terms that horsemen could understand. His contribution to equine nutrition and KER has been substantial and he will be truly missed."

Prior to joining KER, Larry held positions at Virginia Tech and the Washington State University. His tenure at Virginia Tech as the extension horse specialist was especially dear to Larry because of his work with young people. As much as he relished the opportunities at Virginia Tech, the appeal of a research-oriented position lured him to KER, and for that choice, his friends and coworkers at KER are most grateful. Lawrence received his undergraduate and master's degrees from the University of Georgia and earned his doctorate from the University of Florida. His studies focused on mineral metabolism and bone physiology in growing horses.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Bluegrass (www.hospicebg.com).