Gord Downie of The Tragically Hip Dies at 53

Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip’s lead singer Gord Downie died on Tuesday, October 17 with his family nearby.

The following day, Downie’s family shared a heartfelt message for fans on Facebook. Read the full statement below.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Downie was diagnosed with brain cancer in late 2015; however, the band didn’t publicize the information until May 2016. Despite his diagnosis, The Tragically Hip—Downie included—went on one final tour this year.

Downie was a beloved musician, especially in his home country of Canada. As such, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau penned a message to the singer after his final concert with the band this past August. 

On behalf of Canadians, I thank Gord Downie and the Hip for their decades of service to Canadian music. Forever in our hearts and playlists.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) August 21, 2016

You can read Trudeau’s statement following Downie’s death here. 

The singer was 53 years old.