Gene Simmons has paid affectionate and sad tribute to his late KISS bandmate, Ace Frehley. He passed away on October 16 after having a brain bleed following a fall. Frehley was initially on life support, but the outlook was grim. The 74-year-old rocker was a founder of KISS and a beloved mainstay of the band. He is truly irreplaceable. Fun, charmingly outrageous, and sublimely gifted, Frehley will long be remembered as a rock and roll original
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Simmons posted on X, "Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace's legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn't live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!"
His Family Issued a Statement Expressing Their Deep Sorrow
Per People, the statement noted that Frehley's family is 'completely devastated and heartbroken." Furthermore, "We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace's memory will continue to live on forever!"
Fans Share the Pain and Grief of Frehley's Loss
Some posted comments that show the depth of respect they have for the late guitarist. They have memories they will always cherish of albums and concerts past.
"He didn't just play guitar. He held lightning like it was memory. They called him Ace. But he never played for the crowd. He played for the ones who still remembered why the music mattered...."
"Ozzy [Osbourne} and Ace...Gone Too Soon"
"My Dad snuck his camera in to the Perth Entertainment Center 8th November 1980 - the first concert I ever went to as a little kid. One of the best memories of my life."
"My Dad snuck his camera in to the Perth Entertainment Center 8th November 1980 - the first concert I ever went to as a little kid. One of the best memories of my life."
"He was so excited about the Kennedy ctr honors. Its so sad he never got accept this honor"
