Mark 'Bam Bam' McConnell served as Sebastian Bach's touring drummer from 1997-2005 and spent 1996-1997 with southern rock band Blackfoot.

Sebastian Bach himself suddenly alerted fans on May 23 that McConnell was in ill health, asking his fans to pray for the stickman. Another McConnell associate had informed fans that the drummer's liver and kidneys had begun to shut down and that he had suffered partial brain damage. Sadly, these conditions led to the drummer's death on May 24.

McConnell's wife Rikki paid tribute to the musician in a Facebook posting. She stated, "My sweet, beautiful best friend and husband. I miss you so much and so do Sara and Patch. I'll take good care of them. My time with you was way too short, but what an adventure! Wow! I'll love you always and always! You'll be in my heart!!! Xoxoxoxox."

The family of McConnell also shared some heartfelt words after his passing. "To all of us, Mark leaves behind his love and kindness, along with the humor and passion for music that he shared with everyone — family, friends and fans alike. He will never be forgotten."

More From Loudwire