SANTA FE, N.M. —

James “Chip” Lilienthal has died. He was trained by the very first fire spirit of Zozobra and was the second person to help light up the night and burn Old Man Gloom to the ground.

Burning of Zozobra: View the latest headlines and previous burnings of Zozobra

He held the role for 34 years before passing the coveted title to one of his daughters. Lilienthal was the first spirit to actually light Zozobra on fire. In the past Old Man Gloom caught on fire near his head, but for his final performance, Lilienthal was the one ignite the flames.

Lilienthal is survived by his son, Jason, and daughter, Katy.

The Kiwanis Club of Santa expressing their grief saying quote:

"The Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe offers its deepest sympathy to the Lilienthal family and to all who felt C

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