This weekend, Canadian hard rockers Sven Gali were struck by tragedy as guitarist Dee Cernile passed away on Saturday (February 25) following a battle with cancer. He was 46.
Cernile was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009. Some of his friends staged a "Rock & Roll Over Cancer" fundraiser event last year.
The following message was posted on Cernile's personal Facebook page [via Billboard]: "After such a courageous journey, two days ago Dee told us that he had nothing more to do here and he wanted to pass away to do what he needed to do elsewhere. This morning Dee got his wish and took his last breath. He went so very peacefully with love surrounding him and his hand held. He is now resting in peace. His family would like to thank everyone for all of your love and support."
David Bendeth, the producer who signed Sven Gali to BMG Canada and produced their 1992 debut album, told Billboard, "Dee was a great guitarist, singer, and songwriter who always wore his heart on his sleeve. His love of music and life made him a true rock star. He will be missed by many that had the great fortune to work with him and hear that great infectious laugh. He was larger than life."
Sven Gali formed as a covers band in 1987, but they switched to originals and found success in the '90s. They released two albums, 1991's Sven Gali and 1995's Inwire, the former of which was certified gold and propelled the group two Juno Awards nominations. They broke up in 1996 and reunited in 2007.
Cernile was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009. Some of his friends staged a "Rock & Roll Over Cancer" fundraiser event last year.
The following message was posted on Cernile's personal Facebook page [via Billboard]: "After such a courageous journey, two days ago Dee told us that he had nothing more to do here and he wanted to pass away to do what he needed to do elsewhere. This morning Dee got his wish and took his last breath. He went so very peacefully with love surrounding him and his hand held. He is now resting in peace. His family would like to thank everyone for all of your love and support."
David Bendeth, the producer who signed Sven Gali to BMG Canada and produced their 1992 debut album, told Billboard, "Dee was a great guitarist, singer, and songwriter who always wore his heart on his sleeve. His love of music and life made him a true rock star. He will be missed by many that had the great fortune to work with him and hear that great infectious laugh. He was larger than life."
Sven Gali formed as a covers band in 1987, but they switched to originals and found success in the '90s. They released two albums, 1991's Sven Gali and 1995's Inwire, the former of which was certified gold and propelled the group two Juno Awards nominations. They broke up in 1996 and reunited in 2007.
