Depeche Mode co-founder Andy Fletcher has passed away, the band’s social media pages confirmed on Thursday.
Andy Fletcher dies: What’s the cause of death?
In a statement, the legendary UK band revealed, much to their overwhelming sadness, “the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate Andy ‘Fletch’ Fletcher.”
“Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh, or a cold pint,” the statement read.
At this time, Fletcher’s family has not revealed the keyboardist’s cause of death, albeit, the punk rockstar’s Wikipedia page lists it as “natural causes”.
— Depeche Mode (@depechemode) May 26, 2022
Fletcher was 60 years old and is survived by his wife Gráinne Mullan and their two children.
Andy Fletcher biography
Andy Fletcher was a native of Nottingham, born on 8 July 1961 and the eldest of four siblings. At the age of 15, he and his high school friend, who would later become his longtime bandmate, Vince Clarke started off as a duo of the short-lived punk rock act, No Romance In China.
Four years later, the pair formed a new band, Depeche Mode, with the addition of David Gore and Martin Gore. Together, the group released 14 high-charting albums, headlined 19 world tours, and collected high honours at award shows.
In 2020, Fletcher and his bandmates were inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
Depeche Mode fans react to Fletcher death
Fans of the legendary UK band took to social media to react to the news of his untimely passing. Here are some of the reactions we picked out:
R.I.P. Andrew Fletcher of Depeche Mode, thanks for everything you did pic.twitter.com/cy4F495DaO
— goth music videos (@goth_videos) May 26, 2022
We’re saddened and shocked that Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has died. Fletch was a warm, friendly and funny person who loved electronic music and could also give sensible advice about the music business. pic.twitter.com/tOMQaeaFoc
— Pet Shop Boys (@petshopboys) May 26, 2022
We are saddened to hear of Andy Fletcher's passing. Our thoughts are with Depeche Mode, their crew, his family and friends at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/6wEHkVvEYb
— New Order (@neworder) May 27, 2022
I have just heard the news. Since we were 10. Same estate. Class mates to label mates. He who kept faith with all the old gang and they with him. It doesn’t compute. Fletch. I have no words. #andyfletcher
— Alison Moyet (@AlisonMoyet) May 26, 2022