Longtime Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack died Monday at his home in Dubois, Wyoming, according to the band’s official website. Hossack, who had battled cancer in recent years, passed away with his family by his side.  He was sixty-five years old.

The message to fans on the website said, “Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and loved ones. We will miss him greatly.”  The website notes that a more formal announcement will be posted.

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Hossack, a veteran of the Vietnam war who was honorably discharged, joined The Doobie Brothers in 1971. The Doobies were one of the few bands at the time with two drummers (John Hartman was the other drummer). Hossack was in the band for some of their biggest hits, including “Listen To The Music,” “Rockin’ Down The Highway,” “Long Train Runnin’,” “China Grove” and “Black Water,” among other classics.  He left the group in 1973.  When the band reunited in 1987, Hossack rejoined, and was with the band until 2010, when he took a leave of absence.

In 2010, shortly after he took his leave, he posted a message to fans on the band’s official website, saying, “It’s been hard not touring with the band but I have incredible support from my family, the Doobie Brothers, and all my friends out there. I can’t thank you enough for everything. All my best wishes to you all, and thanks for thinking of me.”

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