I, too, am shocked and deeply saddened by this.
Over the course of the last 15 years, I had no fewer than 25 phone conversations with Bobby nand this lead to:
1. Thew purchase of my first pair of Merlin VSM-Ms
2. Purchase of a David Berning Z-270 amp
3. Purchase of my second pair of VSM-SEs
4. Purchase of an ARS Sonum Filarmonia
I sold all the gear about 5 years ago when I had to move my gear into a smaller room so that the kids have a bigger rec room. I always believed that I would return to a pair of VSMs in their latest iteration once the kids finished school and I could reclaim the basement once again.
Bobby and I also spent much time discussing golf and various courses we have played. I can't believe that we never met in person.
RIP, my friend.