Jack Russell performs in Indianapolis in 2012.Photo:Stephen J. Cohen/Getty
Stephen J. Cohen/Getty
Rock star Jack Russell has died at the age of 63.
On Thursday, Aug. 15, a statement was released on theInstagram pageof the vocalist and founding member of the hard rock band Great White.
“With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell — father, husband, cousin, uncle and friend,” the statement read. “Jack passed peacefully in the presence of his wife Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hucko, cousin Naomi Breshears Barbor, and dear friends Billy and Cheryl Pawelcik.”
“Details of a public memorial will be announced at a later date,” the announcement continued.
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“Jack is loved and remembered for his sense of humor, exceptional zest for life, and unshakeable contribution to rock rock and roll where his legacy will forever thrive,” the statement read.
The post then added, “His family ask for privacy at this time.”
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Last month, Russell announced his retirement from touring due to being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA).
“I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve,” his Instagram post readat the time. “Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support.”
Jack Russell of Great White in 2016.Gary Miller/Getty
Gary Miller/Getty
According toVariety, Russell was born in Montebello, California in 1960.
Meeting guitarist Mark Kendall in 1977, the duo formed bands such as Highway and Livewire.
From Left: Audie Desbrow, Mark Kendall, Jack Russell, Lorne Black in 1986.Michael Ochs Archives/Getty
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty
The name of the band was then changed to Great White due to it being Kendall’s nickname.
The rock group went on to produce many hit songs such as 1989’s “The Angel Song” and “Once Bitten, Twice Shy.”
However, tragedy struck in 2003 when their show at the small Station nightclub in Rhode Island caught on fire due to pyrotechnics. According toVariety, 100 people died and 230 others were injured. Among the deceased included Great White guitarist Ty Longley.
source: people.com