The Staten Island bowling community and beyond mourn the loss of a true legend, Raymond Laursen. Ray’s passing leaves a profound void, but his legacy of professionalism, generosity, enthusiasm for life, and love for the sport will forever remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him.
Ray’s journey in the world of bowling began at the age of 13, igniting a passion that would shape his life’s work. In 1979, he made his investment in the sport by becoming the owner of the Colonial Lanes Pro Shop. A year later, he expanded his enterprise which will become Country Pro Shop & Custom Awards Center, located within Rab’s Country Lanes, where he continued to leave his mark on the sport.
As a Silver Level USBC Certified Coach, Ray dedicated himself to the development of bowlers of all ages, volunteering his time to coach high school bowling teams. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of bowlers exemplified his dedication to the sport’s future.
Ray’s contributions extended beyond coaching; he was a charter member of the International Bowling Pro Shop & Instructors Association (IBPSIA), completing their Technical Certification Program in 1997. I n recognition of his invaluable contributions to the Bowling Industry, Ray was honored with IBPSIA’s President’s Award in 2015.
Instrumental in the establishment of the Staten Island USBC, Ray played a pivotal role in its formation, serving on the Transition Committee and subsequently on the Board of Directors since its inception in 2005. He lent his expertise to various committees, including the Tournament, Hall of Fame & Awards, and Youth Committees.
Ray’s dedication to his community was unwavering; he served as President of the Buck’s Business Network and as a Board Member of the Rab Wilkinson Foundation, where he spearheaded the creation of the Annual Rab Wilkinson Memorial Strokes for Strikes Golf Outing, benefiting the community and scholarships for young athletes. Ray incorporated charity into his business model, as he believed in giving back as much as one can.
Throughout his lifetime, Ray’s impact was duly recognized. He was inducted into the Staten Island USBC Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service in 2017 and was inducted as part of the inaugural class of the Staten Island Bowling Hall of Fame for both Superior Performance and Meritorious Service. Additionally, he received their prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, the Ben McNevich Memorial Award.
Ray has also been recognized by numerous organizations including the Boy Scouts of America, Joe Ryan Memorial Committee, NY1, and the Staten Island Sports Hall of Fame for his dedication not only to the sport, the next generation, and the Staten Island community.
Described by SIUSBC President Jim Episcopia as the “consummate prankster,” Ray’s sense of humor brought joy and laughter to all those around him. “Whether he was extending a helping hand or simply sharing a smile, Ray’s kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and we will remember his passion, generosity and unwavering commitment to bowling.”
The Ray Laursen Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind, ensuring that his spirit lives on in the next generation of keglers. For details and to donate: visit rabsway.org.