Bernie Tormé – Dead At 66

Bernie Tormé, best known for his tenure with GILLAN, has passed away one day before his 67th birthday after a bout with virulent double pneumonia. The Dublin born guitarist also had stints with OZZY and Atomic Rooster, as well as leading his own band and collaborating with Twisted Sister singer Dee Snider in Desperado. His family has released the following statement:

“Bernie Tormé passed away peacefully on the 17th March 2019, one day short of his 67th birthday, surrounded by his family. He had been on life support for the past four weeks at a London hospital following post-flu complications.

“Bernie will be remembered for dedicating his life to his music for five decades. He will be sorely missed.”

Bernie’s bandmate Mik Gaffney added, “On a personal note, I can only say how much I will miss him. I’ve known him since the late 80’s. It’s been a privilege to be his drummer for the past couple of years and his friend for much longer. It’s a struggle to convey the emotion into words.”