“Larry was truly a wonderful, inspirational person and musician who will be missed by his family, band mates, friends and fans worldwide.”
— Kick Axe

METAL NEWS — Sad news to report as we learn of the passing of Kick Axe guitarist Larry Gillstrom.

The guitarist had been battling Cancer for some time but continued to perform live, write and record.

Gillstrom helped co-found Kick Axe with Victor Langen (bass guitar) and Gary Langen (drums, lead vocals) back in 1976.

After the band decided to uproot from their home-base in Regina Saskatchewan and made the move to Vancouver for better exposure, the group’s drummer opted to stay put, so they brought in Larry‘s brother Brian Gillstrom to fill the void.

Over the band’s near 50 year career, they released multiple albums and shared the stage on tour with the likes of Metallica, Judas Priest and Scorpions.

The band released an official statement which we have shared below…

It is with heavy hearts we must announce the sudden passing of Larry Gillstrom on Monday, August 4th 2025.

Larry maintained a positive and upbeat attitude as he quietly fought a courageous battle with cancer, all while performing live shows with Kick Axe in 2024.

Along with Kick Axe performances in Calgary and Winnipeg; Larry’s final show was on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 in his beloved hometown of Regina, where it all began.

Larry and the band were working on a new Kick Axe album until the very end.

Larry was truly a wonderful, inspirational person and musician who will be missed by his family, band mates, friends and fans worldwide.

Details of a celebration of life will be provided at a later date.

In honour of Larry, please crank up your favourite Kick Axe song or album.

… and of course Stay On The Road To Rock Forever!

— Kick Axe

Larry Gillstrom was 69.

Metal Sludge send our condolences to the entire Gillstrom family and to the Kick Axe community.

Stay tuned to Metal Sludge for more Breaking News, Updates and Features along with both New Interviews and Classic 20 Questions.