Music legend looses battle with cancer
Mike Hossack, a longtime member of the Doobie Brothers, died March 12 at his home in Dubois, Wyoming at the age of 65. Hossack lost his long battle with cancer.
“Mike was a one-of-a kind guy and a long-time member of the Doobie Brothers,” Doobie Brothers manager Bruce Cohen on the band’s website. He was a fighter and fought the big battle with cancer and he was a close personal friend of mine and I speak for Mike’s family and the entire band when I say he will be greatly missed.
Hossack played with the Doobie Brothers from 1971 to 1973. He later rejoined the band in 1987, eventually taking two years off to focus on his health.
“Mike has always been a part of my musical life and the life of the Doobie Brothers,” said band co-founder Tom Johnston. “He was an incredible musician.”
Mike Hossack’s drumming can be heard on Doobie Brothers hits like Blackwater, China Grove and Listen to the Music.
One of the original members of the band Patrick Simmons noted Hossack’s compassion stating, “We were friends for 43 years and we shared some wonderful adventures together, times I will never forget. Thanks for all those wonderful memories Mike, and all the great music. We love you.”
Hossack also served in the Navy during the Vietnam War.