Junkyard rock star David Roach has died aged 59, just weeks after he married.
Roach, who co-founded the rock band in 1987, died after a long cancer battle. He had suffered with a form of aggressive squamous cell carcinoma that affected his head, neck and throat, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser.
In a statement shared on social media, the band said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Roach. After a courageous battle with cancer, David passed away peacefully last night at home, in the loving arms of his wife.
“He was a gifted artist, performer, songwriter, and singer—but above all, a devoted father, husband, and brother. Our thoughts are with the entire Roach family and everyone who loved him. —Junkyard.”
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Just two weeks ago, Roach married his wife Jennifer. The couple were said to be shattered by his cancer diagnosis.
Jennifer wrote on a social media post: “It’s devastating and life-altering, and we’re trying to navigate through the emotions and uncertainty that come with it.
“David is showing such incredible strength and resilience, and even in the midst of this darkness, he’s still managing to keep his sense of humor. It’s a reminder of how amazing he is.
“But we know this journey ahead will be extremely tough, David made it clear he is not giving up hope and we’re going to need all of your love and prayers.”
(Image: GoFundMe)
Roach’s bandmate, Chris Gates, shared a tear-jerking tribute, saying: “I loved him like a little brother. We had our ups and downs, but that never changed. My condolences to his brother and sisters, v and to ask the people who lived him or were touched by his/or songs. I’ll miss playing music with him, but he’ll always be an important part of me.”
Fan tributes have been pouring in for the rockstar. One wrote: “This hits hard, I love Junkyard. Lucky enough to have some great conversations with Dave. True talent and passionate about what he was doing. Rock on brother.”
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, with 1.8 million cases reported across the United States of America each year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
It is usually not life threatening, however if it is left untreated it can spread to other part of the body. Symptoms include nodules, which look like bumps on the skin, as well as sores inside the mouth, or a sore on old skin.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
