In Loving Memory of Lawrence E. Bienemann

 

Lawrence “Larry” E. Bienemann, 81, of Amelia Island, passed away on April 10, 2024, at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville following a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Born in 1943 to Lawrence and Elizabeth (Wirth), he grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and had a great relationship with his cousins, who were his close friends. He was an outstanding baseball player who played at Alliance College, where he studied business.

Larry was a successful healthcare executive and served as co-founder and CEO of Addiction Recovery Corporation, a company that started and operated substance abuse treatment centers across the United States. One of his most meaningful achievements was the opening of the PRIDE Institute in 1986, the first inpatient treatment facility dedicated to providing recovery programming for the LGBTQ community.

He was a kind, thoughtful, and introspective person, qualities that brought him to a Buddhist practice that enriched his life. He was known for asking great questions (sometimes real ‘zingers’) that showed how much he cared for the people in his life. Larry was a devout Pittsburgh Steelers fan, generous volunteer, and student of aikido. Despite being “a city kid,” he loved animals, especially his dogs Ruby and Brava. His absence will be felt by his many friends and loved ones. His sense of community and core values made everyone he touched better for the experience. At his request, there will be no service.

Larry will be missed by his beloved wife, Andrea Patten, his sons Lars Bienemann and Luis Sattelmayer, and stepchildren Dan Israel, Sarah Israel, and Brian Patten. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Sevina, Elise, Lucas, Aria, Hylah, Liam, and Lyla. 

In lieu of flowers,  memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Two of Larry’s favorites were Fernandina Beach Pride and World Central Kitchen. More importantly, remember him when you let someone merge into traffic, smile at a stranger, and forego the urge to make a snarky online comment.

 

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