Eddie Van Halen dead: Ex-wife Valerie Bertinelli, son Wolfgang’s emotional tribute

Guitarist Eddie Van Halen passed away following a battle with throat cancer Tuesday. His son Wolfgang, 29, confirmed the death as online tributes began pouring in for the Van Halen rocker.

“I can’t believe I’m having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning. He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift,” wrote Wolfgang beside the picture of his smiling father. “My heart is broken and I don’t think I'll ever fully recover from his loss. I love you so much, Pop.”

Eddie Van Halen’s ex-wife Valerie Bertinelli, 60, also tweeted in response to her son’s Wolfgang sweet message. They were married from 1981 to 2007.

She shared a family photo with a heartfelt message, “40 years ago my life changed forever when I met you. You gave me the one true light in my life, our son, Wolfgang. Through all your challenging treatments for lung cancer, you kept your gorgeous spirit and that impish grin.”

“I’m so grateful Wolfie and I were able to hold you in your last moments. I will see you in our next life my love” Bertinelli added.