We received this note from the deAsis family last night.
Benchmade friends and family –
I have some very sad news to share with you. My father, Les, passed away today following a stroke he suffered earlier this week.
No words can properly express the sadness of our loss. Our family has lost our beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Benchmade has lost our founder, friend and visionary who built one of the greatest knife brands in the world.
My father loved all customers, employees, suppliers, friends, and the storied list of knife makers who influenced him and the world of knives since his humble beginnings in the 70’s. He was especially passionate and proud of the knife and shooting sports industries and always hoped they would thrive well beyond his years.
His commitment to enriching education, growing local communities, and creating a better future for knife owners around the country is unparalleled.
The values, culture, and essence of our brand are all thanks to his lifelong pursuit of making great knives even better, and providing users with products they can depend on every day, no matter the circumstance.
His personality and character extended far beyond business, creating fun friendships and relationships that brought him tremendous joy day after day. He always cherished interactions with people from all walks of life; from folks in law enforcement and military, to those who love hunting and fishing, and also those who simply like to “smoke cigars, bullshit and eat good food” – in his own words!
We will host a celebration of Les’ life and accomplishments and will share details when they are available.
Please help honor my father by continuing your dedication to the company that he loved and cared for so much.
-Jon deAsis
Was really sadden to see this news too. He was such a nice and regular guy when I met him. We shared a flight back east and I got to hear about how he started Balisong, Benchmade etc it was really cool and you could see how much he loved knives and his company etc. Your family are in our Prayers and we wish you all the best.
R.I.P. Sad to hear! He manifested the American dream – took his passion, built a thriving company making great products here in the USA and employing hundreds of people. He will be missed.
Major loss to the “industry”…Les embodied that to which all of us should aspire!
He steadfastly kept his company here in the US, never compromised on quality and ultimately built a company worthy of the accolades bestowed upon it!
Thoughts and prayers to Jon and the entire Benchmade family!