Doug Irwin’s impact on the music world was undeniable, and all you have to do is check out the Irwin Guitars Facebook page to know it.
Because it was there Monday that Irwin’s death was announced, and fans of his work were quick to show their heartbreak.
He was 76.
“Today we remember and honor Douglas Leo Irwin,” the post read. “Doug was a master craftsman, a visionary, and someone who dedicated his life to his work. His guitars were never just instruments, they were built with intention, precision, and soul, becoming part of the music and the artists who played them.
“To his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, Doug was more than his work,” the statement continued. “He was a presence, a character, and someone whose impact reached far beyond words. His legacy will live on through the instruments he created and the music they helped bring to life. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.”
Followers of the page responded with love.
“The finest and most iconic instruments of a century,” Kirby Wadsworth replied. “Literally the Stradivarious of our time. R.I.P.”
“The best to ever build a custom electric guitar,” Ryan Brewington replied. “Often imitated, never duplicated.”
“Mega-talented guitar visionary,” Tom Snediker replied. “Builder of the coolest guitar ever built. Our loss is the cosmos’ gain.”
The San Francisco Chronicle said that Irwin was known for creating the instruments that became “inseparable” for Garcia onstage. Those were named “Wolf,” Tiger,” “Rosebud,” and a headless guitar, “Wolf Jr.”
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, his death comes just weeks after “Tiger” was sold at a Christie’s auction for a whopping $11.56 million.
The outlet reported that Irwin also created instruments for Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh and bassist and keyboardist Pete Sears.
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