Los Angeles, California – The passing of NBA Hall of Famer and devoted Deadhead, Bill Walton, left the surviving members of the iconic Grateful Dead in mourning. The band’s offshoot, Dead & Company, took to social media to express their heartfelt tribute to Walton, describing him as an irreplaceable force and spirit within their family. With over 1,000 shows under his belt, Walton’s love for the band was palpable, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Bob Weir, Mickey Hart, and Bill Kreutzmann, three of the Grateful Dead’s core members, each shared their own personal messages of gratitude and fond memories with Walton. Weir reminisced about the wonderful friendship they shared, while Hart referred to Walton as the best friend he ever had. The drummers highlighted Walton’s unwavering devotion to the band and how he used their music as the soundtrack to his life, leaving a void that cannot be filled.
Kreutzmann hinted at the incredible stories he shared with Walton, promising to reveal them only after his passing. He emphasized Walton’s unique perspective on the Grateful Dead, where all Deadheads were considered equal in his eyes. Kreutzmann fondly recalled the image of Walton standing in the audience, experiencing the music with pure joy, a sight that brought happiness to both of them.
The legacy of Bill Walton will forever be intertwined with the Grateful Dead’s music, as he leaves behind a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His impact on the band and the community of Deadheads will be cherished and remembered, with his spirit living on through the music that meant so much to him. The Grateful Dead family mourns the loss of one of their most devoted fans, honoring Walton’s memory with love and appreciation for the joy he brought to their lives.