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Old 02-12-2006, 09:41 AM
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Ed Caffrey Ed Caffrey is offline
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The passing of a Knife Legend...Bill Moran

I learned early this morning that the person who many of us consider the Father of modern knifemaking has passed away. This message was posted on BF from Jerry Fisk:

"Bill (Moran) passed away at about 4:00am this morning in his sleep. Funeral will probally be friday." I don't have any more information, but I'm sure it will be forthcoming.

It is a sad day in the knifemaking world...we have lost not only a fine human being, but an individual who single handedly rediscovered the making of damascus steel. In lament I recall the first time I every met Mr. Moran. It was 1984, when the Blade Show was in Knoxville, TN. It was the first major knifeshow I had gone to as a spectator. I was looking forward to meeting all those people I had idolized and most were cordial enough. However, when I introduced myself to Bill, and mentioned that I was trying to be a Bladesmith, he asked if I had any of my work with me, and sit and talked for almost an hour! Giving me advice, and helping me with problems. He treated me as if he had known me for years, and was as kind and gentle an individual as I have ever met. As the years went by I spoke with Bill whenever I got the chance, and he never changed.....always a gentleman with a kind word and a smile. I count myself blessed to have known him. Godspeed Bill, rest in peace.


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Old 02-12-2006, 10:29 AM
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much respect and my condolences to his family and all who knew/loved him.

Ron LaBella Jr.


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Old 02-12-2006, 11:36 AM
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I can't say it any better than Jerry did, just that the dates were later and the man never changed, he was always very helpful and sincerely a friend. I feel very fortunate and blessed by having known him and counting him as a friend.


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Old 02-12-2006, 12:08 PM
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You said it well, Ed.

Outside of Bill's shop in Maryland:


Bill's work bench:


His loss is huge for everyone in the world of custom knives and especially for his peers and close friends. But the loss is totally eclipsed by all that he gave so freely to so many. He was one of the "Good Guys" for sure!
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Old 02-12-2006, 12:35 PM
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A sad day indeed. We all prospered and benefited from knowing him. This is a tremendous loss.


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Old 02-12-2006, 12:49 PM
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His work, characterized by being a bit rough. Not perfect. His steel of reknown was damascus--an unlikely mix of different materials. His affecting spirit was hewn of giving, sharing,and humility.

This symbolism is how Bill represents a slice of humanity, as we aspire to it.

It is no wonder he is, and will be the most outstanding icon in modern knifemaking.

Rest in Peace.


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Old 02-12-2006, 07:04 PM
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So sorry to hear this. Bill was a gentleman.


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Old 02-13-2006, 02:19 AM
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Bill Moran

I first met Bill at the SouthEastern Shows. He was always so easy to talk to and made me feel like he had known John and me forever. He will be missed. I have 4 show posters Mr. Moran signed and each has always been treasured by me--now even more so.

I can just see him, John, and Judy discussing what type sword would be best for Michael and the best outlet for the supplies.


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Old 02-13-2006, 08:02 AM
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A man that toughed the hearts of everyone that new him...he will certainly be missed...


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Old 02-13-2006, 10:51 AM
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I am sad to hear this news, I am proud to say that I had the opportunity to sit and talk with Bill. I will miss him greatly.... God Bless Bill Moran


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