SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Regina Kearney and her son, Bradley Rice, are heading into the busy summer months.
For about a year now, the two operated Northridge Lanes, a tribute to their family patriarch, her dad Chuck Kearney, who spent 50 years in the bowling business and sadly passed away in 2020 at the age of 81.
“He loved the bowlers, and we would talk to them, come out, everyone loved him. He couldn’t hardly get away to get any work done,” said Regina. “He was good all around sports. Everything he did, and he passed that onto us.”
Chuck had worked as GM of Northridge Lanes from 2007 until his death, and prior to that, locations in Springfield, Cincinnati and Kentucky.
When an opportunity came about to purchase the property a year later, Chuck’s widow, Shirley, and her three children decided to take a leap of faith.
“Started thinking, this would be good you know. Let’s see if we can do this. Let’s at least try. Let’s see if we can carry on dad’s legacy,” said Regina
“I wanted to be involved in this bowling alley, very personally because of my grandfather. I always hoped one day that he would be able to own his own business, or even my family own the business of a bowling alley. And now that we do, it’s like a dream come true,” said Rice.
The Kearneys will continue the relationship with local high schools, just like Chuck did, hosting tournaments throughout the year.
Northridge Lanes is also planning to expand its lounge area in the coming years.
Even after Shirley’s passing last year, the family bond is stronger than ever, and they know the business is in good hands.
“Wish I could have done this with my mom and dad. But I will continue to do it for as long as I can. And we plan on keeping this in the family,” said Regina.
