I've been wondering about him a lot lately. I tried calling a couple years ago but couldn't get a hold of him. I'm actually not surprised to find this news. Its sad to hear but I'm glad that I know. I met him and his son a few years ago at his home.
One thing I'll share from that meeting is that I was just gaining an interest in knife making when I called him to see if I could meet with him. He said, "Well, I've never turned anyone down." When I got there I didn't realize who I was visiting until I got to walking around his shop, talking to him, and held one his larger knives. He said, "Light, isn't it?" I remember slowly realizing I was talking to someone distinguished in his field (to say the least). I appreciate his willingness to meet with me and still give time to a new maker. He was still giving to knife making, even though it wasn't an easy visit for him. I'll always have the memory of that meeting and his generosity.
I know that's a long post but I wanted to contribute to his memory. Thanks, I hope that it resonates well with his friends.
Luke