Spirit of the West frontman John Mann, who suffers from Alzheimer’s, performs his final concert in Vancouver, Saturday, April 16, 2016. A fundraising campaign for Spirit of the West singer Mann is seeking $10,000 to help pay for the musician’s medical and personal needs.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward
singer John Mann has died at the age of 57, according the the band.
Mann was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s in 2014 at age 52, battling it in the spotlight.
He brought awareness to the disease in his performances, interviews, and the documentary film Spirit Unforgettable which screened at VIFF.
The statement from the band is below.
With deep sadness we announce that John Fraser Mann (OBC) has passed away peacefully in Vancouver, the inevitable result of Early Onset Alzheimer’s Disease with which he was diagnosed several years ago.
Surrounded by friends and loving family until the end, all were reminded of John’s rich legacy. He was a potent force in music, acting — onstage, in movies and on television, and was world renowned as a songwriter. As well, he was a foresightful activist and charitable figure for several worthwhile organizations. His work will resound long after his untimely passing.
His career spanned nearly 40 years and included multiple film roles, numerous star turns in theatre, and fame as lead singer and spell-binding front-person of Canadian musical group ‘Spirit of the West’.
John was a man of uncommon courage, was a loyal and beloved friend, a gentleman of great social conscience, and a soul brimming with creativity and enthusiasm. Most importantly he was a loving father to Harlan & Hattie and a wonderful husband to Jill Daum.
A private memorial service will be held later. John Mann’s family thank you for privacy at this difficult time.
