Tributes pour in as rock icon dies aged 59
David Roach, the singer of the 1980s hard rock band Junkyard, has died aged 59. Roach was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, in March.
His bandmates announced the singer's death on Sunday via Instagram.
'It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Roach,' read Junkyard's post.
'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.'
Upon his diagnosis, Roach's fiancée stepped away from her full-time job to become his primary caregiver. According to reports, Roach got married to his fiancée only a few weeks ago.
In March, a GoFundMe was set up to help the musician with his medical expenses. The GoFundMe is still active, and all donations made will go to settling the singer's medical fees.
Roach co-founded Junkyard in 1987 with guitarist Chris Gates, who paid tribute to Roach on social media:
'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 loved 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.'
Junkyard were popular in the Los Angeles Sunset Strip area for their hard rock sound. The band released two albums via Geffen record label before their split in 1992.
In 2000, when the band got back together, they released Shut Up- We're Tryin To Practice! This album was recorded live in 1989, at Hollywood Palace and included their big hit Hollywood.
Following this, Junkyard toured the album for many years. In 1991, they went on tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd for the band's headline tour.
Roach is survived by his wife Jennifer, along with his son, brother and sisters.
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