Officially Announced: Ace Frehley’s Cause of Death

The legacy of Ace Frehley, the original guitarist of KISS, concluded tragically with his passing on October 16, 2023. His cause of death has been officially confirmed as blunt trauma to the head resulting from a fall, according to the Morris County Medical Examiner. Frehley was 74 years old at the time of his death.

Details of the Memorial Services

A private memorial service took place for Ace Frehley on October 21, 2023, at the Sinatra Memorial Home in Yonkers, New York. He was buried the following day at Woodlawn Cemetery, close to where he grew up and where his parents are laid to rest.

The services were attended by around 75 guests, including notable KISS members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. Family, friends, and fellow musicians came together to honor Frehley’s remarkable life and career.

Gratitude from the Family

John Ostrosky, Frehley’s longtime manager, expressed gratitude to those who facilitated the services. He thanked Frank Sinatra Jr., Yonkers’ Mayor Mike Spano, and the Yonkers Police Department for their support during the events.

Ace Frehley’s Medical Challenges

Frehley’s health had deteriorated in the weeks leading up to his death. Reports indicate that he suffered a severe fall at home that resulted in brain bleeding and subsequent life support. His family made the heart-wrenching decision to remove him from the ventilator shortly before he passed.

Musical Contributions and Career

Born Paul Daniel Frehley, he co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside Stanley, Simmons, and Criss. Over his career, he contributed to KISS’s first nine albums and returned for the 1998 reunion album, “Psycho Circus.” In 2014, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the original lineup of KISS.

• First Departure: 1982
• Rejoined: 1996
• Final Departure: 2002

Prior to his passing, Frehley was working on his album “Origins Vol. 3.” His latest solo effort, “10,000 Volts,” was released in February 2024 and followed two previous collections of cover songs.

Final Years and Personal Life

Frehley’s personal struggles included challenges with substance abuse, which he addressed publicly. After a difficult period marked by multiple accidents and health issues, he credited his daughter Monique with inspiring his sobriety in 2006.

He married Jeanette Trerotola in 1978. Despite their separation seven years later, they remained married until his death. Ace Frehley is survived by Jeanette, their daughter Monique, and several family members.

The world of music has lost an iconic figure, but Ace Frehley’s influence and legacy will continue to resonate among fans and musicians alike.