Eddie Van Halen, popular guitar artist and founder of the group van Halen, has died. He was 65. Wolfgang, Van Halen’s son, confirmed the legend’s death via social media. The renowned musician passed away after a long battle with throat cancer ended Tuesday morning at St Monica Hospital. His wife Janie and son Wolfgang were both by his side.
“He was the best father I could ever ask for,” his son, Wolf Van Halen, said in a note that was posted to Twitter.
“Every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don’t think I’ll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop.”
Van Halen had battled throat cancer for over a decade, which had reportedly spread to his brain. In the last 72 hours, his condition had worsened considerably according to doctors.
Throughout his career, Halen had endured a number of health issues, including a very severe joint problem that led to surgery in 1999. In 2000 he had a portion of his tongue removed due to the cancer. Many believe this throat cancer is a result of Halen’s heavy smoking during his life. Throughout the past year reportedly, Eddie had been in and out of the hospital due to the cancer, even flying to Germany to seek out chemo treatment. During these battles however, he continued to attend concerts with his son, who became the bassist in the legendary group Van Halen.
Halen lived his early life in Pasedena, California. However he was born in the Netherlands. He displayed his guitar prowess in his song “Eruption.” His guitar mastery cemented Halen as a legend among legendary musicians worldwide. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame added Van Halen in 1977.
— Wolf Van Halen (@WolfVanHalen) October 6, 2020
He is survived by his wife Janie, and his son Wolfgang.
