Ron Asheton was found dead at his home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, police said yesterday.

Speaking to Ann Arbor News, police confirmed that the musician may have been dead for several days before his body was found. Initial reports suggest that he died from a heart attack, although these have not been confirmed. 

Asheton was one of the founding members of the band, along with brother Scott, bassist Dave Alexander and their maniacal frontman Iggy Pop. Alongside Pop, Asheton helped write songs that would contribute to a template of punk rock, with raw, anarchic snarls at the boredom of being a suburban teen. 

For the band’s third album ‘Raw Power’ Asheton was relegated to bass, but when the Stooges reformed for a tour in 2007 he was back rockin’ his lead guitar.  

The following message from his bandmates has been released, “We are shocked and shaken by the news of Ron's death. He was a great friend, brother, musician, trooper. Irreplaceable. He will be missed. For all that knew him behind the facade of Mr Cool & Quirky, he was a kind-hearted, genuine, warm person who always believed that people meant well even if they did not. As a musician Ron was The Guitar God, an idol to follow and inspire others. That is how he will be remembered by people who had a great pleasure to work with him, learn from him and share good and bad times with him. Iggy, Scott, Steve, Mike and Crew”. 

Iggy Pop left the following personal statement: “I am in shock. He was my best friend.”

Posted In Latest Music News, Jan 07 2009. Words - Naomi