Pete Huttlinger, TrueFire Educator and a dear friend of ours, passed this week, and we are saddened way beyond the words I am able to compose.
Pete was not just a friend — he was a hero of mine. Not just a guitar hero (which he certainly was), but a real life hero as well. The courageousness, positivity, and humor Pete demonstrated throughout his medical crisis are the qualities of those extraordinary human beings who inspire us — to be better people, to never give up, and to always see the light at the end of the tunnel as we strive to overcome the challenges we all face in our lives.
Over the last couple of years, we collaborated with Pete on two of his TrueFire courses. I’m smiling now as I recall the jokes he made about charging the batteries in the medical apparatus he wore under his clothes to keep his heart beating. I’m smiling as I remember the professionalism of his performance and the brilliance of his teachings during those sessions. I’m smiling as I remember the passion Pete had for his music, and how generous and enthusiastic he was about sharing his knowledge with fellow students of guitar.
Yes, I am very saddened, but I am also smiling because Pete would want us to. And I’ve got a feeling Pete is also smiling as we reflect on the magnificent gifts he left behind for us.
Indeed, Pete Huttlinger is, and will always be, my hero.
Brad Wendkos
TrueFire CEO & Founder
P.S. In the coming weeks, there will be a way for all of us to help and support Pete’s lovely wife, Erin, through this very difficult time. We will, of course, participate, and we will also update you accordingly as we learn what is being organized to assist and offset the significant medical costs Pete and Erin have incurred over the years.