A private memorial service honoring original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley was held on Tuesday, October 21, at the Sinatra Memorial Home in Yonkers, New York. The service was followed by a funeral on Wednesday, October 22, at a cemetery in the Bronx — the same neighborhood “where he grew up” and “very close to where his parents were buried,” according to SiriusXM radio personality Eddie Trunk, a longtime friend of the late musician who attended both ceremonies.
Trunk shared that the arrangements closely reflected Frehley’s final wishes, ensuring that the guitarist was laid to rest in the city that shaped his life and career.
A Private Gathering of Family, Friends, and Fellow KISS Members
According to a report by Tampa Bay Music News, the memorial service was an intimate affair:
“The memorial service was private, by invitation only, and not open to the public,” the outlet stated. “It was attended by about 75 people, mostly musicians who had played with Ace, recorded with him, or simply hung out with him over the years. Family, close friends, and all the members of [the original lineup of] KISS were present: Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss.”
The emotional service brought together those closest to Ace Frehley — a man remembered not just as a rock legend, but as a friend, collaborator, and inspiration to generations of guitarists.
Remembering Ace Frehley’s Final Days
Ace Frehley, born Paul Daniel Frehley, passed away on October 16 in Morristown, New Jersey, at the age of 73. Reports indicate that the guitarist died peacefully while surrounded by family members.
According to sources close to the family, Frehley’s health had deteriorated following a second fall at his home, which caused a brain bleed and led to him being placed on life support. Nearly two weeks later, his family made the difficult decision to take him off the ventilator, allowing him to pass away peacefully.
The news of his death sent shockwaves through the rock community, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Ongoing Medical Examination and Pending Cause of Death
A representative from the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed to TMZ that no autopsy was performed on Frehley. However, a toxicology screening and an external body examination are currently underway.
The medical examiner’s office noted that the final cause of death will be determined and made public in the coming weeks.
Family Statement: “We Are Completely Devastated and Heartbroken”
Frehley’s family released a heartfelt statement confirming his passing and expressing their grief over the loss:
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.”
The family continued:
“We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
A Legacy That Defined Rock Guitar
Known to fans worldwide as the “Spaceman”, Ace Frehley helped shape KISS’s sound with his fiery solos, blues-driven riffs, and larger-than-life stage presence. His contributions to albums like “KISS” (1974), “Destroyer” (1976), and “Love Gun” (1977) turned him into one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
Beyond his tenure with KISS, Frehley also built a successful solo career with albums such as “Ace Frehley” (1978), “Frehley’s Comet” (1987), and “Spaceman” (2018) — the latter serving as a fitting nod to his iconic alter ego.
Even decades after leaving KISS, Frehley’s influence continued to resonate across generations of rock and metal musicians who credit him as a key inspiration.
A Final Farewell
As friends, family, and fans continue to mourn, the private memorial and funeral services served as a powerful reminder of Ace Frehley’s enduring impact — not only as a founding member of KISS but also as a humble and passionate artist whose love for music never faded.
His legacy, spirit, and unforgettable guitar work will continue to echo through rock history for decades to come.
