Jack Russell, the great white vocalist and founding member, has died aged 63

Rock star Jack Russell has died aged 63.

On Thursday, August 15, a statement was released on the Instagram page of the vocalist and founding member of the hard rock band Great White.

“It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell – father, husband, cousin, uncle and friend,” the statement read. “Jack passed away 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 unwavering contribution to rock and roll where his legacy will thrive forever,” the statement read.

The post then added: “His family is asking for privacy at this time.”

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Last month, Russell announced his retirement from touring after being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA).

“I am unable to perform at the level I want and the level you deserve,” his Instagram post read at the time. “Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support.”

Conformable VarietyRussell was born in Montebello, California in 1960.

Meeting guitarist Mark Kendall in 1977, the duo formed bands such as Highway and Livewire.

The band’s name was then changed to Great White, as it was 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 fire due to pyrotechnics. Conformable Variety100 people died and another 230 were injured. Among the dead was Great White guitarist Ty Longley.

Following the news of Russell’s death, Great White released a statement on their Instagram page.

“How about someone who has been with you on such an amazing journey, the good and the bad? We prefer to let the music fill in the gaps,” they wrote. “All these wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts.”