Eddie Van Halen has died from throat cancer, his son has confirmed.
The guitarist co-founded metal band Van Halen and the sad news was confirmed by his son Wolf Van Halen, who posted a tribute on Twitter.
Wolf Van Halen wrote in a note, which was posted on Twitter: "I can't believe I'm having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning.
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"He was the best father I could ever ask for. 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."
The star was reportedly diagnosed with with cancer in 2000. He travelled between America and Germany for five years to receive treatment, and was given the all-clear in 2002, after having a third of his tongue removed.
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As reported by Metro, Van Halen had tried to work out where the cancer originated from.
He said: "I used metal picks - they're brass and copper - which I always held in my mouth, in the exact place where I got the tongue cancer.
"Plus, I basically live in a recording studio that's filled with electromagnetic energy. So that's one theory.
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"I mean, I was smoking and doing a lot of drugs and a lot of everything. But at the same time, my lungs are totally clear. This is just my own theory, but the doctors say it's possible."
He had revealed his original diagnosis to his fans via the band's official website back in 2002.
In the statement, he wrote: "I'm sorry for having waited so long to address this issue personally. But, cancer can be a very unique and private matter to deal with. So, I think it's about time to tell you where I'm at.
"I was examined by three oncologists and three head & neck surgeons at Cedars Sinai [Medical Center in Los Angeles] just before spring break and I was told that I'm healthier than ever and beating cancer.
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"Although it's hard to say when, there's a good chance I will be cancer free in the near future. I just want to thank all of you for your concern and support."
Featured Image Credit: PA
