It is with deep sorrow that we report the sudden passing of Bill Crook, the former bassist of the Spiritbox and the pop-punk act Living With Lions. His death was announced approximately seven hours ago via musician Kai Turmann’s Instagram, in which Turmann shared a heartfelt message of disbelief with fans.
Turmann’s statement reads, “Hi everyone. I have some absolutely devastating news to share. I’m so profoundly sad to say that our friend Bill Crook has passed away. He was a friend to so many, and a dear friend to me since we were children. Bill was, and is, loved by so many people, and I’m so incredibly sorry to have to share this devastating information with you.”
He continues, “There will be many words and many tears, but for now I just need to get the terrible news out there. I’m so sorry. I love you all. I love you Bill.”
The caption accompanying this statement reads, “Our dear friend Bill Crook has passed away. There will be lots of memories shared in the coming days, weeks and months. For now, his Mom has asked me to inform everyone. I’m so sorry to have to share this news with you all. Sending love to everyone who knew and loved Bill.”
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Bill Crook rose to prominence performing with the Vancouver, Canada, group Living With Lions. The band released their debut EP, Dude Manor, in 2007, and their most recent collection, Island, was released in 2018. It was the same year that Crook joined Spiritbox as their permanent bassist. However, after four years with Spiritbox, a short statement was released in May 2022 announcing his departure from the group.
Spiritbox wrote across their social media platforms, “We are saddened to announce that Bill Crook is no longer with Spiritbox. This decision was mutual and with no hard feelings. We ask that you respect his privacy on the matter and we wish him nothing but the best in the future.”
Following his departure from Spiritbox, Crook was working on his own music. He posted to his Instagram on July 7 a montage video of himself working with acclaimed Underoath drummer/vocalist Aaron Gillespie. The caption shared, “3 new songs. Thank you @aaronrgillespie for helping me bring these ideas to life”
Fans and friends have already flooded to Crook’s last post to share their condolences and their heartache over this devastating news.
Ryan “Tuck” O’Leary of Fit For A King writes, “Hope you have a fine sleep bill.” While Alex Shelnutt of A Day To Remember shares, “Love you bill.”
In a post on his own Instagram feed, Brendan Murphy of Counterparts shares, “Winners shoes and I’m gonna miss you Bill. Thank you for everything.”
At the time of this writing, Spiritbox has not made a statement about Bill’s passing, but Courtney LaPlante and Mike Stringer have both shared photos with Crook to their Instagram Stories. We at idobi Radio are sending our deepest condolences to Bill’s family, friends, fans, and loved ones during this difficult time.