Beloved New Zealand keyboardist Alan Mansfield died in Sydney on Wednesday aged 72, after a long battle with cancer.
The beloved performer was a member of the legendary pop rock band Dragon from 1983 to 1997 and played some of their biggest hits.
Alan’s long-time partner Sharon confirmed the news of his passing in a heartbreaking Facebook post: “Yesterday morning I lost the love of my life.
‘His daughter and I were with him and he passed comfortably and peacefully. Alan fought for three years and, although he died cancer-free, the toll of the radiation treatment took its toll on his poor body.’
She added that Alan had fought bravely against the cruel disease and she was proud of how long he fought.
‘He was brave and brave and his doctors and nurses were amazed at how long he fought the war. They loved him very much.
‘Alan did not want any kind of funeral fanfare and we will say goodbye privately and discreetly as a family. Maybe you want to do the same by playing his music.’
The talented musician also worked as a studio engineer and produced Dragon’s 1983 hit single Rain, which reached number two on the Australian charts.
Beloved New Zealand keyboardist Alan Mansfield (pictured) died in Sydney on Wednesday aged 72, after a long battle with cancer.
Throughout her celebrated career, she worked with many top singers, including Robert Palmer, Bette Midler and Tommy Emmanuel.
Along with his Dragon bandmates, Alan was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2008.
He had lived in Sydney since 1982, where he died on Wednesday.
Alan is survived by his partner Sharon and daughter Lauren.
The beloved performer was a member of legendary New Zealand pop rock band Dragon from 1983 to 1997, and played on some of their biggest hits.
His passing follows reports that Dragon will kick off their Australasian tour with a show at Melbourne’s Flemington Racecourse on Friday, December 6, before heading to other major cities for the iconic 50th anniversary concert.
The band was formed in Auckland in 1972 and was fronted by Marc Hunter.
They had big hits with songs like Rain and Are You Old Enough?
Alan’s long-term partner Sharon (left) confirmed the news of his passing in a heartbreaking Facebook post.
