Eddie Van Halen, legendary guitarist, dies at 65

Eddie Van Halen, the iconic guitarist and co-founder of the rock band Van Halen, died Tuesday morning after a long battle with cancer, his son Wolfgang announced on Twitter. He was 65.

“I can’t believe I’m having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning. He was the best father I could ever ask for,” Wolfgang wrote. “Every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don’t think I’ll ever fully recover from this loss. Love you so much, Pop.”

Best known for co-founding the legendary band Van Halen, Eddie Van Halen will be remembered for his record-breaking additions to the art, including many famous guitar solos. The band formed in 1972 and became one of the most famous rock bands of all time. In 2007, Van Halen was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.