Hansel, the Lodge Room’s Gentle Guardian: A Tribute

Hansel, 2022

It’s rare that a dog becomes part of the heart and soul of a music venue, but Hansel was exactly that—a beloved fixture who brought warmth and comfort to the Lodge Room in Highland Park for several years.

Hansel was one of the trio known as the “Lodge Room Dogs,” a set of furry friends who made the venue feel more like home to everyone who walked through its doors. But Hansel had something special—an unmistakable presence that made him stand out, especially to those of us who love dogs, and golden retrievers in particular.

The first time I met Hansel was back in 2022 when I arrived to shoot a show by !!! (Chk Chk Chk). Amid the chaos of setting up gear and the buzz of soundchecks, Hansel greeted me with his big smile and gentle spirit. In that moment, his friendly presence was the best thing about the entire night. It was a small, quiet moment of calm that left a lasting impression. I may have only met him a couple of times, but as a dog lover, that brief encounter meant a lot.

Hansel’s owner, Julian Weiss, shared on Instagram that Hansel had recently been treated for an obstruction, a condition that seemed to be improving, only for it to rupture and lead to sepsis. The news of his passing came suddenly and hit hard. Even though I only crossed paths with Hansel a few times, hearing of his loss felt personal.

What made Hansel so much more than “just a dog” was the way he became part of the Lodge Room’s identity. In a venue built on energy, loud music, and ever-changing faces, Hansel was a grounding force—a calm, reassuring presence who reminded everyone that this place was more than just a stage. It was community. It was home. It was a gathering place where people and music and life intertwined, with Hansel quietly at the center of it all.

For photographers, musicians, staff, and fans alike, Hansel was an unspoken fixture of those nights—a soul who embodied the welcoming spirit of the Lodge Room. His legacy is one of comfort, loyalty, and the kind of quiet companionship that goes unnoticed until it’s gone.

To Julian and the whole Lodge Room family, thank you for sharing Hansel with all of us. His paws may no longer walk through the venue, but his spirit and the memories he gave us remain. He mattered deeply, and he will be remembered fondly.

Rest easy, Hansel. You were truly one of the good ones, and you will be missed.