Larry Hilt

Jim Smith · Post by **Jim Smith** » 24 Apr 2018 10:52 am

I just read on Facebook that Larry passed away in his sleep a couple nights ago. Besides designing and building Buddy Cage's custom guitar, Larry was the 'H' and I was the 'S' of the H&S Custom Signature Dekleys. RIP Larry!

Doug Beaumier · Post by **Doug Beaumier** » 24 Apr 2018 10:57 am

Sorry to hear this, Jim.

Russ Tkac · Post by **Russ Tkac** » 24 Apr 2018 12:13 pm

Sorry to hear Jim. Peace and comfort to his family and friend.

Buddie Hrabal · Post by **Buddie Hrabal** » 25 Apr 2018 2:08 pm

I never met Larry but I know if he was anything like Jim he was super. Their guitar design was awesome. Rest in peace Larry.

John Brabant · Post by **John Brabant** » 28 Apr 2018 9:07 am

What the heck Jim? I just spoke with Larry back in the fall, discussing Buddy's guitar and the upcoming PSGA show in Norwalk, CT. He sounded great, was working full time at his engineering job, seemed like all was well. What happened? I think he said he was 68 y.o. last fall. Does Buddy know?

Jim Smith · Post by **Jim Smith** » 28 Apr 2018 11:07 am

John Brabant wrote:What the heck Jim? I just spoke with Larry back in the fall, discussing Buddy's guitar and the upcoming PSGA show in Norwalk, CT. He sounded great, was working full time at his engineering job, seemed like all was well. What happened? I think he said he was 68 y.o. last fall. Does Buddy know?

Apparently Buddy Cage was the one that told his ex-wife, who posted it on Facebook. Last I heard was that they hadn't determined if it was a heart attack or not.

Joe Casey · Post by **Joe Casey** » 29 Apr 2018 6:21 am

Sorry to hear this Jim,I remember seeing that guitar before it was shipped and I think I met Larry then also.

b0b · Post by **b0b** » 3 May 2018 9:40 am

received via email:

Wayne Hilt wrote:To Everyone,

I am Larry's brother, Wayne.

I appreciate all the positive comments about Larry. He left us way to soon.

Larry and I were about to make our annual trip to the Brimfield flea markets for as Larry put it "Family Day". Brimfield week will not be the same.

His loss is a real blow to me my sister Wendy and our families. He had so much more to contribute to the field of music. I only wish he got to reach the full potential of his dreams.

I remember visiting the Dekley plant where Larry showed me the whole manufacturing process from the aluminum castings to finished components, The rod mechanism's insuring smooth function without hangups. And those Federal wood inlays, like he did on Buddy Cage's guitar...The product really was top of the line. A tad heavy but not subject to distortion/detuning from a leg moving.

RIP Bro

Jeff Garden · Post by **Jeff Garden** » 3 May 2018 10:32 am

Here are a few photos of Buddy Cage's custom Hilt D12, 10 pedal, 14 knee masterpiece. RIP Larry...