Deaths on March 29

Larry L'Estrange, English rugby player and soldier (b. 1934)

Larry L'Estrange MBE: A Life of Service, Sport, and Global Encounters

Larry L'Estrange MBE (12 November 1934 – 29 March 2007) lived a truly multifaceted life, distinguishing himself as both a decorated British paratrooper and a respected rugby player. His journey took him from the serene Lancashire coast to the battlefields of Suez, through the hallowed grounds of international rugby, and across diplomatic circles, reflecting a unique blend of discipline, intellect, and adventurous spirit.

Early Life and Distinguished Education

Born in Lytham St Annes in 1934, Larry L'Estrange was the son of a British diplomat, a background that undoubtedly shaped his global perspective from an early age. His formative years were marked by an impressive and international education. He first attended the prestigious Blackrock College in Dublin, a renowned institution known for nurturing talent. His intellectual pursuits then took him across the Atlantic to the University of Chicago, before culminating in studies at the historic Sorbonne in Paris, one of the world's oldest and most respected universities. This diverse educational foundation equipped him with a broad worldview and a sharp mind.

Military Service and the Suez Crisis

L'Estrange's commitment to service was evident early in his life. He undertook National Service, a mandatory period of military training for many young men in post-war Britain, which led him to join the elite Parachute Regiment. His military career saw him deployed to Suez during the critical 1956 crisis. This period was a significant geopolitical flashpoint, and L'Estrange's involvement as part of the Parachute Regiment underscores his bravery and dedication in a time of international tension. He earned a commission, steadily rising through the ranks to achieve the notable position of lieutenant colonel. Following his distinguished military service, L'Estrange returned to Ireland, where he continued his academic pursuits, studying modern history and political science at the University of Dublin.

A Cap for Ireland: Rugby Career Highlights

Beyond the rigors of military life, Larry L'Estrange was a passionate and accomplished rugby player. His post-military career saw him making a significant impact on the rugby pitch. He played for London Irish, a club with a rich history and strong ties to the Irish community in England, where his skill as a back was recognized with the coveted 1963-64 Backs' Honours tie. His talents also saw him represent Sussex and the Territorial Army in various matches. The pinnacle of his rugby career arrived in 1962 when he earned a coveted cap for Ireland, making his international debut against England at Twickenham. This particular match was notable for being a baptism of fire for many, with L'Estrange being one of nine debutants for Ireland. Though the game itself was famously described as 'ghastly' for him, partly due to a dislocated finger sustained during play, earning an international cap is a profound achievement for any rugby player, cementing his place in the annals of Irish rugby history. Larry was also a devoted family man, with a daughter named Fiona Anne Kathleen L'Estrange.

Later Life, Diplomatic Ties, and an Unforgettable Incident

Larry L'Estrange's connection to diplomacy remained through his family, as his father, Laurence L'Estrange, served as the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Honduras from 1969 to 1972. Larry himself found a career as an insurance broker, working at Thorman Hunt & Co in Bow, London – a company that has since evolved to become a wholesale alcoholic beverages distributor, a curious twist reflecting changing times. His later years were not without incident, most notably in 1984, when he made headlines after being mistakenly barred from entering Greece. The reason? A Turkish North Cyprus visa in his passport, a contentious issue at the time. After a strong protest to the Greek Embassy in London, the situation was swiftly resolved, leading to a full apology, a return plane ticket, and a complimentary two-week holiday in Greece – a testament to his persistence and the diplomatic weight he carried, perhaps inherited from his background.

Passing

Larry L'Estrange passed away on 29 March 2007, at the age of 72, after being hospitalized for a broken hip in Condom, Gers, France. His life was a remarkable tapestry woven with threads of military bravery, sporting excellence, intellectual pursuit, and global experiences, leaving behind a legacy of an extraordinary British figure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Larry L'Estrange MBE

Who was Larry L'Estrange?

Larry L'Estrange MBE was a distinguished British paratrooper who served as a lieutenant colonel in the Parachute Regiment and an international rugby player who was capped once for Ireland.

When and where was Larry L'Estrange born?

He was born on 12 November 1934 in Lytham St Annes, England.

What was Larry L'Estrange's military service?

He undertook National Service, joined the Parachute Regiment, and was deployed to Suez during the 1956 crisis. He was commissioned and reached the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Which rugby teams did Larry L'Estrange play for?

He played for London Irish, Sussex, the Territorial Army, and earned one cap for Ireland against England in 1962.

What was Larry L'Estrange's profession after his military and rugby careers?

He worked as an insurance broker at Thorman Hunt & Co in Bow, London.

When did Larry L'Estrange pass away?

Larry L'Estrange died on 29 March 2007, aged 72, in Condom, Gers, France.