Widespread Panic guitarist dies
ByAug 11, 2002 10:00 PM
Michael Houser, guitarist for the popular jam band Widespread Panic, died on Saturday (8/10) as a result of pancreatic cancer. He was 40.
Michael Houser, guitarist for the popular jam band Widespread Panic, died on Saturday (8/10) as a result of pancreatic cancer. He was 40.
Last month, Houser released a statement in which he announced that he had been diagnosed with a terminal form of cancer.
“I want to assure all of you that all that can be done has been done,” said Houser, “and I want to thank all of you who have contributed information, medicine, and so on. As for me, I am at my home in Athens, Ga., surrounded by my family, and being well taken care of.”
Widespread Panic addressed Houser’s death in a message posted on the its official
“In this very sad time, we encourage you to gather with your Panic families in your hometown and celebrate Michael Houser’s life on Monday, August 12th,” the group said. “Our hearts are with you as we know that your thoughts and prayers are with us.”
Houser’s family has asked that contributions be made to The Michael Houser Music Fund, funds from which will benefit Athens Academy, according to the band’s statement.
“Mike, his wife Barbette, and his son Waker have all been deeply involved with Athens Academy and through this fund the school will be able to provide children with the opportunities to discover the richness and wonder of music that so enriched Michael’s own life.”
Memorials can be sent to: The Michael Houser Music Fund; Athens Academy; PO Box 6548; Athens, GA 30604.
Widespread Panic recently finished its summer tour. For most of the group’s July dates, guitarist George McConnell filled in for Houser, who hadn’t played with the band since July 2.
Houser co-founded Widespread Panic in the early ‘80s. Over the years, the group has amassed a loyal following similar to that enjoyed by the Grateful Dead.