Photo via Depeche Mode’s Official Instagram

On May 26, Andy “Fletch” Fletcher, the co-founder and keyboardist of synth-pop and New Wave stalwarts Depeche Mode passed away. Now, nearly a month after the tragic loss, his band have shared Fletcher’s cause of death. 

In a statement released by Depeche Mode on their official Instagram, they explained, “A couple weeks ago we received the result from the medical examiners, which Andy’s family asked us to share with you now.” They went on to add, “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.”

Fletcher’s Depeche Mode bandmates Dave Gahan and Martin Gore, continued, “We had a celebration of Andy’s life in London last week, which was 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. 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.”

They went on to conclude, “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.”

For those interested in honoring Andy Fletcher, his family has invited fans to make a financial donation in his memory by supporting the Teenage Cancer Fund. For details, visit justgiving.com. 

See Depeche Mode’s official Instagram post below.