REO Speedwagon band members are mourning the death of their former guitarist, Gary Richrath, who died on Sunday at the age of 65.

Richrath was part of the band known for hits like “Take It On the Run” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” He served one of the guitarists for REO Speedwagon from 1971 to 1989. He co-wrote some of the bands hits, including “Take It On the Run.”

Gary Richrath, REO Speedwagon guitarist who wrote some of the band's biggest hits, has died http://t.co/2izO6noe7G pic.twitter.com/VT3IbOToQI

— CNN (@CNN) September 14, 2015

“I feel so sad. Gary was both a unique guitarist and songwriter, and the embodiment of the tough guy with a heart of gold. I learned most of what I know about being in a rock band from Gary Richrath,” REO Speedwagon’s lead singer, Kevin Cronin, wrote on the band’s website and Facebook page. “The entire REO Family mourns his death and shares in the grief of his family, friends, and fans. These words do not come close to expressing the depth of emotions I am feeling at this time.”

Gary Richwath performed with REO Speedwagon in 2013 for a benefit concert to raise money for tornado victims in Illinois.

Hi friends, kc here. My longtime friend and collaborator Gary Richrath passed away earlier today. I feel so sad… pic.twitter.com/ZFTSsV6W7h

— REO Speedwagon (@kcreospeedwagon) September 14, 2015

Richrath released a solo album called “Only the Strong Survive” back in 1992. REO Speedwagon’s album “Hi Infidelity” sold 10 million copies in the U.S. in the 1980s.

Are or were you an REO Speedwagon fan? Do you like the present band or the performances and songs from the earlier days?