Photo: A recent installation in Butler Hall at the University of Dubuque
A spokesperson for Dobson Pipe Organ Builders in Lake City says they are “devastated and heartbroken” following a Tuesday fire that destroyed the world-renowned business. “We can’t thank the Lake City Fire Department and area fire departments enough for their quick response, but the blaze just could not be controlled,” says Deana Hoeg-Ryan. No official cause of the fire has yet been reported and Hoeg-Ryan says they are awaiting the official report from the State Fire Marshal’s Office before releasing any further details. Members of the Dobson team met with management this (Wednesday) morning to discuss their path forward from here. On behalf of John and Judy Panning and the Dobson employees, they would like to thank the entire community of Lake City for their outpouring of support in this very difficult time. The 47-year-old business was founded by Lynn A. Dobson in 1974 and has built and/or refurbished instruments for cathedrals, musical venues and college campuses around the world. Dobson retired early last year. Unfortunately, an organ being built for the St. James Church in Sydney, Australia was lost in the blaze.
