Son of builder Buddy Blaze dies of drug overdose at age 31
Kailua Kona, Hawaii (March 2, 2009) Premier Guitar is saddened to learn that Matthew James “Matt Blaze” Webster of Kailua Kona, Hawaii has lost his battle with addiction at age 31.
Born January 22, 1978, Matt was the only child of legendary guitar builder Buddy Blaze and his wife Joyce. Along with his parents, Matt was a resident of Kona for the past three years where he often helped Buddy and Joyce construct their instruments. Previous to moving to Hawaii’s Big Island, Matt lived in Visalia, California. Matt is survived by his parents and his eight-year-old son Evan Zachary Webster, the namesake of the Evanator guitar built by Buddy.
Webster had battled substance abuse problems for several years but had been making progress in recent months. Well-known and well-liked in the tight-knit community of guitar builders and players, Webster’s death came as a shock to the musicians whom he had befriended over the years.
Memorial services will be held in Kona with details to be announced as they become available.
Please send condolences to:
Buddy Blaze Fine Instruments
P.O. Box 580
Kailua Kona, HI 96745-0580
Viewing will be held until the service on Saturday at:
A Hui Hou Funeral Home
75-5745 Kuakini Hwy.
Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740
808-329-5137 or 808-887-2801
Born January 22, 1978, Matt was the only child of legendary guitar builder Buddy Blaze and his wife Joyce. Along with his parents, Matt was a resident of Kona for the past three years where he often helped Buddy and Joyce construct their instruments. Previous to moving to Hawaii’s Big Island, Matt lived in Visalia, California. Matt is survived by his parents and his eight-year-old son Evan Zachary Webster, the namesake of the Evanator guitar built by Buddy.
Webster had battled substance abuse problems for several years but had been making progress in recent months. Well-known and well-liked in the tight-knit community of guitar builders and players, Webster’s death came as a shock to the musicians whom he had befriended over the years.
Memorial services will be held in Kona with details to be announced as they become available.
Please send condolences to:
Buddy Blaze Fine Instruments
P.O. Box 580
Kailua Kona, HI 96745-0580
Viewing will be held until the service on Saturday at:
A Hui Hou Funeral Home
75-5745 Kuakini Hwy.
Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740
808-329-5137 or 808-887-2801
