One of the
best luthiers around, Lance McCollum, passed away on Sunday morning,
February 1, 2009 after suffering an aortic aneurism. I did not
know him well, but he was a helpful and generous friend to all
luthiers, including me. He spent an afternoon in 2005 showing
me his shop and offering advice, knowledge, and hospitality,
and his insight and experience in the luthier's craft.
Lance was recognized
as one of the best at his craft, and the examples of his work
that I have seen confirm that. He will be missed by his friends,
customers, his wife Dawn, and their three children. Please keep
them in your prayers.
A memorial
fund has been set up for Lance's family. You may direct your
contributions to:
McCollum
Family Fund
c/o Bank of the West
13422 Lincoln Way
Auburn, CA 95603
OR
McCollum
Family Fund
c/o Mauel Guitars
P. O. Box 3014
Auburn, CA 95604
You can visit
Lance's website to see photos and descriptions of
his work.