by Joseph RADDER
If you’re a regular patron of Chef’s Restaurant in Buffalo, then
no doubt you’ve come to know and depend on Larry DePerro. He has been a fixture at
the well-known Italian eatery for 37 years, and many people, including the
restaurant’s owners, credit Larry’s joyous personality and expertise as a big
part of Chef’s success. In fact, seeing Larry at Chef’s makes one feel right at
home.
For this Buffalo native, Chef’s has become part of his extended
family. Larry began working at the restaurant on a part-time basis at the tender young age
of 17 as a salad prep person in the kitchen.
He soon found his life’s calling in the restaurant business, progressing from bar
tender and waiter to his present position as night manager.
A meal at Chef’s just wouldn’t be the same without Larry. Each
day he makes patrons feel like they’re part of the family and are having a cozy meal
at home.
At 54, Larry is also a local playwright focusing on satires of
everyone’s daily life experiences. He and his lady love, Margaret Mary, a Tonawanda
school teacher, raised two children -- Christopher, a Cornell University graduate now with
the University of Manchester in England, and Kelly, a Keuka College graduate who works as
an occupational therapist in Massachusetts.
A loyal parishioner of St. Benedict’s Church at Main Street and
Eggert Road, Larry also sings in their Contemporary Ensemble, continuing a love of music
that dates back to his Army days. While helping Uncle Sam in 1965-66, Larry was a member
of the Choral Group of his division stationed at Fort Polk.
During his spare time Larry enjoys golfing, sporting a 20 handicap, and
spending time with his family and friends.
Joseph Radder is a freelance writer.