MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — Ace Frehley, the GRAMMY® Award–nominated rock guitarist and founding member of KISS, has died at age 74.
Frehley passed away peacefully Thursday in Morristown, surrounded by family, following a recent fall at his home, according to a statement from his family.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” Frehley’s family said in a statement. “In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx, New York, on April 27, 1951, he rose to international fame in the 1970s as the lead guitarist and one of the original members of KISS. Known to fans as the “Spaceman,” Frehley’s explosive guitar style, iconic makeup, and larger-than-life stage presence helped define the band’s sound and image. His work on albums such as KISS, Destroyer, and Love Gun cemented his status as one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
Frehley was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 as a member of KISS. Over his decades-long career, he also enjoyed success as a solo artist, with his 1978 debut album Ace Frehley becoming a fan favorite and spawning the hit “New York Groove.”
He is survived by his wife, Jeanette; daughter, Monique; brother, Charles; sister, Nancy Salvner; nieces, Suncere Frehley and Julie Salvner; nephews, Sky Frehley and Andrew Salvner; sister-in-law, Michelanne; and brother-in-law, Ron Salvner.
Frehley’s family described his passing as “of epic proportions,” adding that his legacy will endure through his music and the millions of fans who were inspired by his artistry.
