Jack Russell dead at 63: Glam metal rocker who founded Great White passes away

Jack Russell, the Great White founding member and lead singer, has died. He was 63.

The band announced Russell's death in a statement on Friday after he died on Thursday, surrounded by family, including wife Heather Ann and son Matthew Hucko.

His cause of death was Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy, both of which impacted his motor skills, Russell's rep told TMZ.

Russell previously announced his diagnosis last month when his condition forced him to retire from touring. 

'Our deepest condolences to the family of Jack Russell,' the band started in their statement. 'We hope they take comfort in knowing Jack's incredible voice will live on forever.

Great White announced lead singer Jack Russell's death in a statement on Friday after he died on Thursday, surrounded by family, including wife Heather Ann and son Matthew Hucko

'His love for the fans and his sons went unmatched, as was his own love for rock music,' the continued.

'What do you say about someone that was there by your side on such an amazing journey, they good and the bad?

'We prefer to let the music fill in the blanks. All those wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts,' they continued.

'It was a privilege and joy to share the stage with him - many shows, many miles, and maximum rock.

'In the studio, Jack was amazing. He always came ready to work. And work hard, he did. Jack stayed until he got the best performance for each song.

'He brought the same excellence to every show. The consistency of his live performances were always beyond comparison. Rest in peace to one of rock's biggest champions,' the group added.

Born Dec. 5, 1960 in Montebello, California, Russell started the band as Dante Fox in 1977 with Mark Kendall, before changing the name to Great White.

Russell was with the group until 1996, becoming known for their songs 'Rock Me' (1987), 'Once Bitten, Twice Shy' (1989) and 'The Angel Song' (1989).

Born Dec. 5, 1960 in Montebello, California, Russell started the band as Dante Fox in 1977 with Mark Kendall, before changing the name to Great White 

His cause of death was Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy, both of which impacted his motor skills, Russell's rep told TMZ

Russell previously announced his diagnosis last month when his condition forced him to retire from touring

After going solo and releasing the albums Shelter Me (1996) and For You (2002), he rejoined the group in 2002 and renamed it Jack Russell's Great White.

In February 2003, the band's pyrotechnics sparked a fire at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island, killing 100 people, including guitarist Ty Longley.

The band started a benefit tour that summer that ran until 2005, when Russell entered rehab following a relapse with alcohol and cocaine.