Eddie Van Halen: Rock world reacts to the famed guitarist's death

The guitarist, who'd been battling cancer, was 65 years old.

October 6, 2020, 9:01 PM

Members of the rock community are sharing their thoughts and condolences after the devastating loss of the legendary Van Halen shredder Eddie Van Halen, who died Tuesday at age 65 after a long battle with cancer.

The guitarist's son and bandmate, Wolfgang Van Halen, tweeted the news, adding that his dad 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," he added. "I love you so much, Pop."

Wolfgang Van Halen's mother and Eddie Van Halen's first wife, actress Valerie Bertinelli, wrote in a subsequent tweet: "Through all your challenging treatments for lung cancer, you kept your gorgeous spirit and that impish grin. I'm so grateful Wolfie and I were able to hold you in your last moments."

Eddie Van Halen's death rocked the music world, with many sharing their grief on social media: