RIGOR MORTIS frontman Bruce Corbitt has announced plans to start an online fundraiser for the family of the band's guitarist, Mike Scaccia, who died this past Saturday night (December 22) while performing with RIGOR MORTIS at The Rail Club in Fort Worth, Texas at Corbitt's 50th-birthday celebration. Bruce states: "Also, there will possibly be a Scaccia tribute/benefit show put together for them to honor Mike and also raise money to help them. It could be as soon as this coming weekend. So I will also need to know what bands are interested in being part of this or if anyone can help in any way. "

He adds: "I also understand that it is Christmas time and I know Mike wouldn't want this to ruin that for anyone. He would want us all to know he went out doing what he loved doing surrounded by everyone he loved. He would want us to block this out and enjoy our Christmas with our families and loved ones."

Scaccia, who is also known for his work with MINISTRY and the REVOLTING COCKS, died of a sudden heart attack brought on by a heart disease (official cause of death: atherosclerotic and hypertensive heart disease), according to the Tarrant County medical examiner's office. Officials ruled it a natural death. He was 47 years old.

According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, police responded to a call from the club at 11:45 p.m. Saturday, and Sciacca was pronounced dead at 12:26 a.m. in the emergency room at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth.

His daughter Sarah posted a message on his Facebook page at 3 a.m. Dallas time on Sunday, saying, "I love you so much dad. I love you so much."

Mike is survived by his wife Jenny Rowen Scaccia, with whom he has two toddlers, and daughters Sarah Scaccia and Taarna Scaccia Hopkins.