Rock Icon Karl Roy Dies

I'm interrupting Filipina Explorer's supposed to be Travel Tuesday post on Pagudpud and La Union with this saddening news.

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Kapatid/ (the already) defunct P.O.T and Advent Call front man Karl Roy passed away at 1:01 am today due to heart attack. News also has it that Roy was hospitalized due to fluid in his lungs. Not much has been said about his death yet; In fact, you'll only find about a couple or so of websites bearing the report. But we could only surmise that his untimely demise is connected to two previous strokes in 2007 and 2008.  Roy has had a bypass surgery since.

His sister, Kathryn Roy, left this message for Karl's fans and friends on her Facebook account:

"It is with deepest sadness that I share the news  of Karl’s passing. He was called Home today at 1:01 a.m. Manila time, surrounded by those who loved him most – mommy, Keith, Kevin, Krys, his daughter Arianna, and our cousin Jack.

Please continue to pray for Karl. He brought so much joy to others but, unfortunately, did not have enough of it in this life. He’s in a better place now, with Lolo Pepe, Lola Conching and Daddy."

The last time I saw Karl Roy was during the Fete dela Musique in Ortigas where Kapatid performed some of their most ingenious hits, including the poignant "Luha". Aaah, those were great times, lad.

A great loss, indeed, for the Philippine rock music scene. 

Rest in peace, Karl Roy.