Jack Russell, the former frontman of the popular 1980s hard rock band Great White, has died at the age of 63. “With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell - father, husband, cousin, uncle and friend,” read the post. Russell passed peacefully in Southern California, surrounded by family and friends, the statement said.
He is remembered for his “sense of humor, exceptional zest for life, and unshakable contribution to rock and roll, where his legacy will forever thrive.” In a statement to The Epoch Times, author of Russell’s biography, K. L.
Doty, said the conditions affected Russell’s motor skills and muscle strength, calling his decline “imminent” and to some “sooner than expected.” “I spoke with Jack regularly throughout the summer, keeping him updated on matters regarding his autobiography, which I penned, but he was often too tired to speak long. At times, he was quite lively, but the moments were fleeting,” said Doty.
“His wife assisted him mostly and he was eager to get back to Southern California for what I assumed were possibly his final days. As it turns out, they were. I am glad he is no longer suffering,” she said.
Russell is survived by his wife, Heather, and son Matthew. A public memorial will be announced at a later date. “Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support.
Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder,” read the post. “What do you say about someone who was there by your side on such an amazing journey, the good and the bad? We prefer to let the music fill in the blanks.
All those wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts,” read the post. The Los Angeles-based band rose to fame in the late 1980s. Although they produced several albums, they are best known for their platinum-selling records “Once Bitten” and “Twice Shy.
” The group, which consisted of members Mark Kendall, Audie Desbrow, Michael Lardie, Scott Snyder, and Brett Carlisle, eventually disbanded in 2001 but, by the end of the next year, took on the name Jack Russell’s Great White until 2006. Russell also recorded several solo albums, such as “Shelter Me” and “For You,” with Great White holding several reunion performances. Jack Russell’s Great White made headlines in 2003 when pyrotechnics during their Rhode Island show ignited a fire, killing 100 people and injuring 200 others.
Following the tragedy, Jack Russell Touring INC. agreed to pay $1 million to survivors and families of the victims..
