Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS are mourning the loss of their former bandmate Ace Frehley, who passed away at the age of 74. In a heartfelt statement to Page Six, the musicians expressed their devastation, emphasizing Frehley’s crucial role in the band’s history and legacy. “He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band,” they stated, extending their condolences to Frehley’s estranged wife, Jeanette, his daughter Monique, and his many fans worldwide.
Peter Criss, KISS’s original drummer, also shared his grief on his website, revealing that he and his wife were with Frehley in his final moments. He expressed profound sorrow, stating, “With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him.” Criss praised Frehley for his impact on countless lives through music, affirming that his legacy would endure within the KISS Army and beyond.
In a poignant turn of events, just days after Frehley’s passing, it was announced that he would be receiving a posthumous Kennedy Center Honor in December—a recognition of his significant contributions to the music industry. Simmons referred to Frehley as “the eternal rock soldier” in light of this posthumous acknowledgment and lamented that Frehley would not live to experience the honor in person.
Frehley’s family shared that his final moments were surrounded by love and peace, adding to the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew him. They remembered him as a source of joy and kindness, emphasizing that his presence and achievements will never be forgotten.
The guitarist had faced health challenges recently, having been hospitalized due to complications from a fall in his studio. Despite his struggles, he remained optimistic about continuing his musical projects, including plans for a new album and scheduled tour dates. Frehley was a trailblazer in rock as an original member of KISS, and though he parted ways with the band in 1982, he uniquely contributed to their legacy over the years, including a successful reunion tour from 1996 to 2002.
As the music world reflects on Frehley’s remarkable journey, his fans and fellow musicians are left to celebrate a career that influenced and inspired generations. His story is a reminder of the enduring impact of music and the lasting legacy that artists create throughout their lives.