Depeche Mode has released a statement on the passing of founding keyboardist Andy Fletcher.

“We wanted to take a moment and acknowledge the outpouring of love for Andy that we’ve seen from all of you over the past few weeks,” teammates Dave Gahan and Martin Gore said in a joint message to fans (see below). ). “It’s amazing to see all of your photos, to read your words, and to see how much Andy meant to you all. As you can imagine, it’s been a weird, sad, and confusing few weeks for us here. is to say the least. But we have seen and felt all of your love and support, and we know Andy’s family has too.”

Fletcher died suddenly on May 26. At the time, no cause of death was given. In their statement, Depeche Mode revealed that the keyboardist’s death was due to “aortic dissection”. “So even though it was far, far too soon, he died naturally and without prolonged suffering.”

“We had a celebration of Andy’s life in London last week,” the group further revealed, “which was a beautiful ceremony and gathering with some tears, but filled with great memories of who Andy was, stories of all our times together, and some good laughs. Andy was celebrated to a room full of many of his friends and family, our immediate DM family, and so many people who have touched Andy and our lives over the years. Being all together was a very special way to remember Andy and see him go.

Fletcher spent over 40 years as a member of Depeche Mode, from 1980 until his death. The musician’s role in the band fluctuated often, as he played bass, keyboards, and even fronted the band at various points in their career. In 2020, Fletcher – along with the other members of Depeche Mode – was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.