The late pioneering drum builder and designer Dennis Stauffer was founder of Stauffer Percussion and master drum builder of Phattie, Black Label, Cocktail, Sounds Like Art, and Steam Bent Drums.

Dennis, who was only 32 years old, died in an automobile crash in Fairview, N.C. in January. See also this news item on Drummerszone.

To support his family, the Love Your Drums fundraiser, featuring a drawing and giveaway of nearly $30,000 worth of custom drums, drum kits and equipment, was organized.

More than 500 people made donations between March 20 and May 20, totaling $19,250.

Both Dennis Stauffer's wife Brittney and son Roan, as well as his father, Dean Stauffer, attended the Chicago Drum Show and assisted during the giveaway.

The giveaway and drawing featured nearly 40 snare drums and three full drumkits, donated by industry sources including many custom drum builders.