Lou Walston

Lou Walston
Born	Raymond L. Walston November 1, 1923
Died	June 4, 2005 (age 81) Baltimore, Maryland

Lou Walston (1923-2005), a magician and clown, was the owner of the The Funhouse Magic Shop in Baltimore, Maryland.

Biography

Walston became interested in magic around the age of 10 years, after seeing a show performed by Baltimore magician Fred Schmelz, who would become his teacher.

He joined the Army in 1943 and performed for the Special Services until returning home in 1946.

Walston began doing magic shows, as well as working as a Produce Manager for the A&P Food Stores. He also operated Lou’s Magic Shop, a small store, but had to stop due to health reasons.

He suffered his first heart attack in 1960. After recovering, he began performing as a "Lou-Bo" the clown around 1962 with Andy "Bobo" Thumbser as his mentor.

Walston would become instrumental in the forming of the Clowns of America in the early 1960’s. The club was formed at his home in Baltimore, and became their first Vice President. He would later also serve as President from 1968-1970. They published a monthly newsletter, The Calliope.

In 1987 and 1994, Lou received awards from the Mid Atlantic Clown Association for his work in clowning.

Walston teamed up with his partner, John “Reno” Tabeling, also a clown, and opened The Funhouse Magic Shop in Baltimore. They also published the Fun-House Gag-zette starting in 1978.

In May of 1978, Walston helped formed The Maryland Wizard’s Magic Club, with meetings held at The Funhouse.

From 1982 to 2001, the shop sponsored The Funhouse Big 3 Convention – a convention for Clowns and Magicians - a three day event each summer.

Walston sold The Funhouse in 2003 due to his declining health.

He held I.B.M. number 31975 and was a member of the Order of Merlin.