Bob Casale, Guitarist For Band ‘Devo,’ Dies At 61

Bob Casale, one of the original members of the new wave band Devo, died suddenly on Monday, Feb. 17 from "conditions that lead to heart failure." He was 61-years-old.

Casale's brother and band mate, Gerald Casale, posted the news on the band's official Facebook page and fondly remembered the talented guitarist.

"As an original member of Devo, Bob Casale was there in the trenches with me from the beginning," writes Casale of his younger sibling. "He was my levelheaded brother, solid performer and talented audio engineer, always giving more than he got."

Fellow co-founder Mark Mothersbaugh shared the following sentiments: “We are shocked and saddened by Bob Casale's passing…He was a great friend. I will miss him greatly.”

Devo in 1998

Devo formed in 1972 after band members reportedly witnessed the Kent State massacre and were inspired to write music.

They entered the American New Wave scene in 1978 with their debut album "Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!" and rose to fame with the 1980 hit single "Whip It."

Casale is survived by his wife Lisa and children Alex and Samantha.