The passing of Fred Lohman

[Matthew Gregory]

I just had a distressing phone conversation with Chris Lohman, son of Fred Lohman of Japanese-Swords.com

Fred died in April, at the age of 88. If any of you have had an opportunity to speak with him in the past, you would know that he was an eclectic and energetic man of nearly limitless knowledge regarding all things nihonto. His shop is one of the few in North America that provides a wide array of materials for the sword builder. Truly a terrible loss for the industry. Chris will be trying to fill the shoes of his father and keep the business afloat.

As his was an incredibly long shadow in this arena, I felt it fitting to post here.


He was a really nice guy, and I'll miss getting the opportunity to bend his ear now and again.

 

[Lorien]

my condolences, Matt.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Sad news. RIP Fred.
Fred was a great guy and very knowledgeable. I only talked to him by phone a few times.

 

[Richard338]

That's a shame. I had several interesting calls with Fred, but did also deal with Chris the last couple times.