Tommy Ramone, the last surviving member of the brilliant Ramones, has passed away aged 62.
Tommy and his brother Joey were founding members of arguably one of the most important punk bands of all time. The band began in 1974.
The news was confirmed on the Ramones official Twitter account last night.
We are saddened to announce the passing of Ramones founding drummer Tommy (Erdelyi) Ramone. #RIPTommyRamone pic.twitter.com/kDBNMpn4Tp
— Ramones (@RamonesOfficial) July 12, 2014
Tommy, born Erdelyi Tamas, had been receiving hospice care for bile duct cancer, according to Digital Spy. He passed away at home.
Tommy left the Ramones in 1978 after drumming on their first three albums, The Ramones, Leave Home and Rocket to Russia. He later co-produced the band’s fourth album and produced the fifth.
Fellow bandmates Joey, Dee Dee and Johnny died in 2001, 2002 and 2004 respectively.
He is survived by his partner Claudia Tienan and older brother.
