Pat Torpey was 64 years old
Pat Torpey, drummer and one of the founding members of Mr. Big, died last Wednesday, February 7th, at the age of 64 due to complications from Parkinson's disease.
Bassist Billy Sheehan said, “Pat was my closest friend for the last 30 years. He was one of the finest human beings I’ve ever had the privilege to know and the honor to work with. All of us in Mr. Big had nothing but the highest respect and admiration for him. He is loved by everyone and certainly one of the best rock drummers the world has ever known.”
Former Mr. Big guitarist Richie Kotzen also spoke about Pat:
"So sad to hear about the passing of my friend and former bandmate. We spent years traveling the world, making music, family vacations. Pat's sense of humor, intelligence, and smile lit up any room he entered.".
I am grateful to have had you as a friend and an incredibly important influence in my life. Your absence will be felt beyond words. With love and tears, rest in peace, my friend
Pat played drums in Mr. Big until 2014, when, due to Parkinson's disease, he switched to playing percussion and doing backing vocals.