D&D General Tim Kask, TSR's First Employee, Passes At Age 76

The very first full-time employee of TSR, the company which created D&D, passed away last night after a sudden illness.

A playtester for early versions of Dungeons & Dragons and TSR's first employee in 1975, Tim Kask worked as an editor for the company, notably for Dragon Magazine. He left TSR in 1980, protesting against the creation of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, later became a teacher, and more recently co-founded Eldritch Enterprises, along with fellow industry veterans Frank Mentzer, Jim Ward, and Chris Clark.

One of Tim Kask's D&D characters was called Kwalish. Later, Kwalish--like other characters from that period--was immortalised by TSR with the Apparatus of Kwalish.

Tim passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by family and friends. Our thoughts go out to those who knew him.

 

[mearls]

That's terribly sad to hear. I think we're fortunate that the rise of gaming histories ensured that Mr. Kask's story, along with the stories of the other founding members of our hobby, has been captured and preserved.

 

[Mournblade94]

That's terribly sad to hear. I think we're fortunate that the rise of gaming histories ensured that Mr. Kask's story, along with the stories of the other founding members of our hobby, has been captured and preserved.

Theyre the best those guys

 

[Sacrosanct]

We are all lucky that for years, Tim hosted a youtube channel where he answered fans questions. You can find more than 300 videos here. I highly suggest checking it out if you're remotely interested in the history of early D&D.

 

[Zaukrie]

Bummer. Really. I'm not even sure what to type, other than thanks for dragon.

 

[SteveC]

I had a chance to play with him as a DM now more than a few years ago, and really soaked in all the history he talked about. All my best wishes to his family and friends.

 

[Wizard Tower Games]

The man was beyond an Icon, his generosity with his time, advice and willingness to answer even the simple questions is part of what made him special. Tim was far more than anything I can put into words, his impact on me personally will be there forever, and his impact on the gaming community has made and will continue to make all of us a hell of a lot better. My thoughts are with Cheryl his wife, and his kids and grandkids.

 

[Sacrosanct]

The man was beyond an Icon, his generosity with his time, advice and willingness to answer even the simple questions is part of what made him special. Tim was far more than anything I can put into words, his impact on me personally will be there forever, and his impact on the gaming community has made and will continue to make all of us a hell of a lot better. My thoughts are with Cheryl his wife, and his kids and grandkids.

I know in recent years you have built a good relationship with him, a personal close friendship. I'm glad you got that before he passed.