Good to have known you, 4evercard.
Ron Lasley, one of the best University of Louisville fans it has been one’s privilege to know, left this earth on Friday after a lingering illness and a lifetime love affair with UofL athletics. A huge loss for the University and for everyone who was warmed by his positive spirit.
He was a giver, someone who cared for other people, an individual who had a gift of making other people feel better about the world and about themselves. He was a reminder of the days when people of different backgrounds and beliefs could communicate amicably with each other.
A season ticket holder for decades, Ron would rarely miss a UofL basketball or football game, often attending baseball, women’s basketball and volleyball competition. He was a generous giver, always among the first to contribute to projects like the football stadium, the indoor practice facility, and the expansion of Jim Patterson Stadium.
Ron was a frequent contributor to local UofL fan message boards for over two decades, earning high marks from fellow fans for his insightful comments at Cardinal Authority, Inside The Ville and the Louisville Sports Report. As “4evercard,” he was among the most popular commenters on the boards.
Not only was his knowledge of basketball obvious, but he had a way of providing insights in a way that was always constructive, respectful and optimistic. He loved talking Louisville sports, and he was on the message boards day and night, responding to numerous threads.
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As the writer of his obituary noted, “No one ever heard anyone say anything negative about Ron, nor Ron about anyone else.”
One of his best friends was Wiley Brown, who played on UofL’s 1980 NCAA championship basketball team. They would meet for lunch often at the Hoops Restaurant next door to Lasley’s Salemaker Carts business in South Louisville. He remained a mentor to Winston Bennett, a former UofL ball boy, even after Bennett shocked him by signing with the University of Kentucky.
The very last UofL game Ron watched was the women’s basketball team against UConn from his hospital bed last Monday. Unfortunately for Ron, they lost the game but he would be looking forward to seeing them again in post-season play.
Ron was among the giants in UofL’s fan base, and he will be missed.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ratterman Funeral home, 7336 Southside Drive. Funeral Wednesday at 11 a.m. with burial following at Cave Hill Cemetery.
I hate it that Ron had to pass away with all the clouds hanging over UofL. He gave so much to the school, emotionally and financially.
Was quite the message board gentleman. The internet is full of keyboard tough guys that ruin a good read. He was quite the contrary. He was always uplifting and positive to go along with knowledgeable on many different sports and topics.
Great write up. He will be missed.