Advertisement

Depeche Mode confirm keyboardist Andy Fletcher's cause of death at age 60

Depeche Mode confirm Andy Fletcher's cause of death (PA)
Depeche Mode confirm Andy Fletcher's cause of death (PA)

Depeche Mode has announced keyboardist Andy Fletcher's cause of death at the age of 60.

Depeche Mode keyboardist Andy Fletcher died while at home on May 26 at the age of 60.

Fletcher, who was nicknamed “Fletch”, founded the band in Basildon in 1980.

Two years ago, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The band has now announced Fletch died after suffering an “aortic dissection”.

In a statement posted on Instagram, Depeche Mode said: “As you can imagine, it’s been a strange, sad, disorienting few weeks for us here, to say the least. But we’ve seen and felt all of your love and support, and we know that Andy’s family has too.

“A couple weeks ago we received the result from the medical examiners, which Andy’s family asked us to share with you now.

Read more >>> 'It doesn’t compute I have no words': Basildon star's tributes to Depeche Mode keyboardist

“Andy suffered an aortic dissection while at home on May 26. So, even though it was far, far too soon, he passed naturally and without prolonged suffering.”

The band held a celebration of his life in London last week which was described as a “beautiful ceremony and gathering with a few tears, but filled with the great memories of who Andy was, stories of all of our times together, and some good laughs”.

The members added: “Andy was celebrated in a room full of many of his friends and family, our immediate DM family, and so many people who have touched Andy’s and our lives throughout the years.

“All being together was a very special way to remember Andy and see him off.

“So thank you for all of the love you’ve shown Andy and his family and friends over the last few weeks. It honestly means the world to all of us. Andy, you’ll be missed, but certainly not forgotten.”

The statement was signed off by bandmates Martin Gore and Dave Gahan.

An aortic dissection is a condition in which a tear occurs in the inner layer of the aorta.

Fletcher moved to Basildon as a young boy where he formed the band that would become known as Depeche Mode with Gore and Vince Clarke.

Fletcher leaves behind his wife of almost 30 years, Grainne, and two children, Megan and Joe.