#Keith Hufnagel, skateboard legend, dead at 46

Keith Hufnagel, the pro skateboarder who founded popular streetwear brand Huf Worldwide, has died at 46.

Hufnagel, who trailblazed the New York City skate scene during the 1990s, passed away after a two-and-a-half-year battle with brain cancer.

Huf Worldwide released a statement following confirmation of its founder’s passing Thursday.

“Keith loved skateboarding and the culture around it,” the brand said. “He did things his way and did them for the right reasons. He inspired so many of us across the globe.”

“But above anything else, Keith loved and supported the people around him. He would do anything for his friends, family and children. He passionately wanted to see others succeed. And we all loved him for it.”

USA Skateboarding, the sport’s official governing body and home to the Olympic skateboarding Team USA, also paid their respects to the legend.

“We are devastated to hear that Keith Hufnagel has passed away. His impact on skateboarding, both on his board and off it as a designer, brand owner/founder and friend will live forever. Rest in peace, Keith,” the organization said in a statement.

Tony Hawk called Hufnagel a “pioneer DIY businessman that valued integrity over profits,” in a Facebook post dedicated to the late athlete.

“It’s incredibly sad to hear about the passing of Keith Hufnagel. He was a skating legend of NYC and SF fame,” he wrote.

“I am thankful to have spent time with him during my Lakai days; he was the catalyst and my biggest advocate for joining the team. Thank you Huf for all of the good times and constant inspiration. Skateboarding is collectively mourning today.”