Hawaiian Icon Larry Price Passes Away at 90, Leaving Lasting Legacy
The Hawaiian community mourns the loss of a true legend as Dr. Larry D. Price passed away peacefully in Honolulu on March 27, 2026, at the age of 90. Price's remarkable life defied simple categorization, encompassing roles as a coach, teacher, broadcaster, columnist, and mentor who touched countless lives across multiple generations.
A Life Rooted in Hawaiian Soil
Born in Kaaawa, Hawaii, Price's journey began with daily commutes to Roosevelt High School where football first captured his passion. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 260 pounds, he became a formidable presence on both sides of the line. His athletic prowess carried him to the University of Hawaii, where he served as team captain for three consecutive years from 1962 to 1964, establishing leadership qualities that would define his entire career.
Beyond football, Price demonstrated remarkable versatility as an athlete. He earned a black belt in judo, competed in boxing, and even spent time with the Los Angeles Rams professional football team. Yet his true calling emerged when he returned to his Hawaiian roots.
Pioneering Coach and Broadcasting Legend
From 1974 to 1976, Price made history as head football coach at the University of Hawaii, guiding the program into NCAA Division I competition. In doing so, he became the first head coach born and raised in the Hawaiian Islands to lead the program at that elite level.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi reflected on Price's coaching legacy: "From the hour I met him, I was there to try to prove something about myself to him knowing full well he held the bar really high. I think he was born to be the head coach at UH. He had a passion for it. He was so skilled."
After his coaching career, Price transitioned to broadcasting where he built an enduring connection with Hawaiian listeners that spanned more than three decades. Alongside Michael W. Perry, he became part of the daily morning routine for countless households through the popular "Perry & Price" show on KSSK-FM.
Perry recalled their early days: "When we got on the radio, we were terrible for about six months, but the timing finally clicked, and everything was perfect, and we had some great, some great moments."
Mentor and Philosopher
Those who knew Price best emphasized that his legacy extended far beyond wins and losses or broadcasting ratings. He was known to many simply as "Coach" - a title that reflected his mentoring approach to life.
Price once shared his philosophy: "Knowledge is power and you got to just keep on going. Forget about all the obstacles and the reasons for not going. Figure out a way to go, and just keep going." This mindset characterized his approach to coaching, broadcasting, and life itself.
In addition to his sports and broadcasting careers, Price served as a news columnist for Mid-Week and a sportscaster for OC16, demonstrating his versatility across multiple media platforms.
Family Statement and Community Impact
Price's family confirmed his passing in a statement that blended pride with profound grief: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Larry D. Price of Honolulu, Hawai‘i, on March 27, 2026. He passed peacefully. Dr. Price was known as an athlete, professor, news columnist for Mid-Week, sportscaster for OC16, and beloved radio personality as part of the Perry & Price morning show on KSSK-FM as part of the morning duo, Perry & Price; many knew him simply as 'Coach.' We appreciate the prayers and sympathies conveyed. The family requests privacy during this time."
The void left by Price's passing will be deeply felt across Hawaii, where his voice, wisdom, and presence became woven into the fabric of daily life for decades. His multifaceted career demonstrated how one individual can impact a community through sports, education, media, and personal mentorship.
As Hawaii remembers this remarkable figure, Price's own words serve as fitting tribute to his approach to life: "Figure out a way to go, and just keep going." His journey may have ended, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes, students, broadcasters, and all who strive for excellence with Hawaiian spirit.
