Lawrence S. “Larry” Barish, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Born November 30th, 1945, in Brooklyn, Larry was raised in Newark, NJ where he graduated from Weequahic High School in 1963. After, he moved to Madison to attend UW and stayed for the rest of his life, outside of a short stint in Arizona where he received his Masters in Government.

He held a fulfilling 41-year career at the Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau where he was Director of Library and Reference and served as editor of the Wisconsin Blue Book. An avid runner, Larry completed multiple marathons and 20 Syttende Mai races. He loved collecting stamps and seashells and found joy in the little things, like the morning paper and daily crossword puzzle. Without a doubt, his greatest joy was being a father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sharon, his beloved daughter Lauren (David Handelman), granddaughter Nora, brothers & sisters in-law and nieces & nephews. He is already deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis & Anna, stepmother Naomi, sister Maxine, and brother Robbie.

Funeral services will be on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation.

Please share your memories of Larry by posting in his guestbook

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434