This message comes by way of Mike Yazel, who shared this sad news in our Facebook group.

“I would ask that the thoughts and prayers of the NMLRA family be with the Curtis Family as they mourn the loss of Tip who has passed away. He has long been a prominent figure in the Muzzle Loading community and a good friend to myself and countless others. I will greatly miss his comment and advice on a myriad of topics we discussed over the years.”

Don Martin shared this story about his time with Tip, “Wanted a 32 cal flintlock a few years ago and talked to Tip and he showed me what he had and what parts to go with it and he said to go look around at the other booths and see what they had, I ended up going back to his tent and bought his kit and it took about two years to assemble but I finally got it and told Tip and he was genuinely happy, he will be missed “

Tip has been a staple in the muzzleloading community for decades, supplying new participants with knowledge, parts, kits, finished rifles, and great stories. We will certainly miss him.