Hilly Kristal, founder of famous New York venue CBGB, died at the age of 75 this past Tuesday of complications from lung cancer. Kristal ran the club from 1973 to 2006, giving vital early support to the scene that brought the world the Ramones, Patti Smith, Television, Blondie, the Talking Heads and many others. The club was recently closed following a prolonged battle with the venue's landlords, with the ensuing tributes and send-off shows solidifying the venue's status as a punk rock mecca and possibly the genre's greatest landmark.

Kristal is survived by his daughter, Lisa Kristal Burgman, son, Mark Dana Kristal, son-in-law Ger Burgman, grandchildren Jenny and Adam Burgman. A private memorial service is planned with a public memorial to be scheduled at a later date. Contributions in Hilly's honor may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society or the Hilly Kristal Foundation for Musicians and Artists