I have just learned that one of our tribe members, Haluk Eryadin, passed away recently (May or June of this year
I believe, but am not certain). Haluk was a maker of sazes, ouds and other instruments.
Several members of this tribe have instruments that were made by him. He was a genuinely nice guy and very helpful and friendly.
He will be missed.

I learned of this sad news reading Mike's Oud forum. The following is from the thread there, written by "Greg":

"I am sorry to have to advise all forum members that Haluk has died. He was in hospital and picked up something like a staph infection. He died after 16 days.

I am in Turkey and I have been trying to contact him. I have just spoken with his wife by way of an interpreter. Of course, she is very upset, as he was healthy until he went into hospital for a relatively minor health issue.

He is survived by his wife and a son from his first marriage.

On behalf of all the members of Mike's Oud Forums, I have communicated our deep sorrow and condolences to the family.

Vale Haluk."