Passing of Brian Klingbile (Winchester)

[Brian]

I have been advised of the passing of Brian Klingbile (Username Winchester) by his wife.
She had this to say:
"This is Brian's wife, Sarah.....Unfortunately, Brian has passed away. 

Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful forum. Brian was new to collecting, and was excited not only to connect with others with similar passions, but to have access to learning opportunities for his new passion. What you have here is amazing, and I wanted to let you know that you make a positive impact on people's lives even if you don't hear this on a regular basis. Thank you for being so welcoming to Brian. 

I have attached Brian's obituary in case you or anyone else was interested in it. I don't know who Brian all connected with (or to what level), so I will leave announcing or contacting others up to you. I am comfortable with this information being shared.
https://www.zimmerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/brian-klingbile "

Our condolences go out to those who knew him, may he RIP.

[Hector]

Born 1984? 
 

That is absolutely heartbreaking. 😢

[Matsunoki]

So sad. 

[Bugyotsuji]

I remember seeing the handle name Winchester, but had no direct contact as far as I can remember.

So brave of his wife and parents, and so much is left unsaid...

[Lewis B]

Gone too soon. I was very familiar with the name and photo associated with the account, although our areas of interest didn't overlap. But he was clearly passionate about his hobbies and that enthusiasm affected those close to him, as demonstrated by his widow reaching out at this very difficult time. His last contribution was in Jan so this must have happened very quickly. Condolences to his friends and family.

[PNSSHOGUN]

That's absolutely heartbreaking, prayers going out to his wife and family. 

[robinalexander]

I didn't know Brian personally, but I had warm regard and I felt a connection, with Winchester. 

 

He often popped into my posts with an emoji and he was always understanding and encouraging.....never changed.  Maybe (selfishly), he fitted my narrative, I don't know, but for someone I have never met or messaged, I just felt a connection.....he was a real gentleman.

 

Thankyou Sarah for sharing this....thinking of you and Brian's extended family.

 

We will miss him.

 

Rob

[ChrisW]

I met Brian at the 2025 Chicago Show.

He had an inquisitive interest, a keen eye, and took a good amount of time to talk to me and examine my blades. He was going to buy a blade from me but was distracted by his wife needing him for something. He felt guilty about it and reached out to me after the show to arrange the purchase. We were about to finish the transaction when he found out about some things that changed his priorities. Its sad that I just found out now why those priorities changed.

He and I shared an interest in Bungo Den and I think my collection of ken intrigued him.

Gone from this world too soon.

Rest in peace, friend.

[Alex A]

Very sad to hear. Enjoyed my interaction here with Brian and talked swords for a short while through pm.

 

He came across as a real gent and down to earth guy and always seemed keen to learn and friendly.

 

Condolences to his family and friends.

[Mark S.]

He took the time to reach out to me with some kind words when I needed them most.  Seemed like a warm, genuine person.  Such a shame… I wish his wife and family Peace in the days ahead.  

[Steve Waszak]

I had the privilege to speak with him on the phone on several occasions.  Just a really good human being.  Down to earth, earnest, non-judgmental, and always presented a positive energy and mindset.  Gone far too soon.  I will miss him.  RIP, amigo.  

[Soshin]

I didn't know Brian Klingbile (Username Winchester) personally, but I do remember him from his posts on NMB. He was significantly younger than me at the time of his death. Sorry for the loss and my condolences to his family and close friends. RIP    

[Curran]

That is shitte. 

 @#$%^&!

Sorry. Busy week traveling, and I'm thinking about work tomorrow.

I figured I would check in on NMB before bed. This is ____ news. Brian- Thank you for letting us know. Yet, I'm angry about it.

 

We've had some painful losses over the years, including Jeremiah last year. I cannot believe Brian (Winchester) is gone. He and I had some fun correspondence and too much in common. We traded a few things, just to play. I have two Benchmade pocket knives from him- one for home and one for car/field, that I traded for a tsuba just to have some fun.

 

I didn't know that he was younger than me.

This is wrong. Condolences to Sarah. He is certainly missed by me.

He was fun, and correspondence from him was welcome any time. I will miss it.