Paul Champagne

[Webmaster]

We were given very unfortunate information this weekend in the news of the passing of Paul Champagne. Paul died April 10 of a heart attack.

We mourn this tragic loss. His death is a devastating blow to the recovery of the historical Art of swordsmithing. Paul was an extraordinary fellow with an incredible talent and knowledge. He had so much work still ahead of him.

http://mevecfuneralhome.com/?p=obituary_view&id=10001913

[Tom Keesler]

Posted at the request of ARMA Director John Clements:

I regret to be the bearer of sad news this Easter weekend, but I was given very unfortunate information this morning, and have since had it confirmed by reliable sources:

It is with great sadness that I pass along news of the passing of Paul Champange. Paul died yesterday morning of a heart attack. He leaves behind his wife Ann and many lifelong friends.

This is a devastating blow to the recovery of the historical Art of swordsmithing. Paul was an extraordinary fellow with an incredible talent and knowledge. He had so much work still ahead of him.

John C.

This is indeed sad news. He was a wonderful craftsman and pursued his art with much integrity. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Solemnly,

Tom Keesler

[Lance Chan]

I'm sorry to hear that. He was too young to go.

[Tony_Klabunde]

My thoughts go out to his family for their loss

[Benjamin Smith]

What a shame. He's done so much for the community of swordmakers. I hope his family will be all right.

[Matt Bryant]

Sad news indeed! Condolences to his family.

[Mike Sheffield]

Namu Amida Butsu x10
Condolences to the family. A hero of mine. A real loss to the world.

[Chris Ouellet]

That's dreadful news. My condolences to the family.

He was clearly a master of his art.

Among his many achievements the one that most sticks out in my mind was a sword from his hand that delivered the most damaging traditional helmet cut while remaining *undamaged*.
http://www.shinkendo.com/kabuto.html

I would have been honored to meet him, for those of you who had the opportunity, cherish those moments.

It is a terrible loss to the world. I hope the ARMA website does something for him in memoriam.

[Aaron Pynenberg]

Yes JC is working on a proper way to show our respect on our site.

I just finished watching my copy of "Reclaiming the Blade". He is featured on it and it is clear that our subject has really lost someone of special importance.

I am so very sorry for his family and wish them all my thoughts during this difficult time. He was a very unique individual and I very much enjoyed listening to what he had to say.

-AP

[Derek Wassom]

Wow. Tragic news. Rest in peace, brother.

[John_Clements]

This has hit the ARMA family very hard. I am personally very distraught at this sad and untimely loss. Right now all I can say is that we will be featuring a tribute to Paul's work on our site soon, releasing some podcast interviews with him as way to remember the man and his work, and celebrate his life.

It is doubly sad that Paul is featured prominently in the new Reclaiming the Blade documentary just released, and though he was a private and humble artist, his wisdom and expertise was second to none. It deserved greater exposure. I recommend everyone re read our interview with him as a way to recall his work and his passion.

Thank you.

John C.
ARMA Director

[Glen Cleeton]

Mermorial Information

Greatfully appreciated

Esperance en Dieu

GC

[Webmaster]

The ARMA tribute to Paul is now online:

http://www.thearma.org/Paul_Champagne.htm

[JV]

For my friend.

http://15minutelunch.blogspot.com/2009/ ... waits.html

[Brian Hunt]

JV,

that was one of the most touching things I have read in a very long time. I had the opportunity to meet your friend at Ashokan 2005. I was very impressed with his passion and his straight forwardness. I feel for the loss of your friend.

My heart goes out to you and to the rest of his family and friends.

all the best.

Brian Hunt.