San Francisco Bay Area Icon GREG KIHN Dead At 75

Greg Kihn, an iconic figure in the realm of rock music, lost his battle with Alzheimer's disease on August 13 at the age of 75.

Known for his magnetic stage presence and unique storytelling that captivated audiences around the globe, he was not merely a musician but a cultural phenomenon whose influence will resonate for generations to come.

Born on July 10, 1949 in the vibrant city of Baltimore, Maryland. Greg discovered a passion for music early in life. He burst on to the scene with the release of "Greg Kihn", which quickly garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. With a unique songwriting style that blended folk, classic rock, blues and pop, his sound helped define a rich musical legacy in the San Francisco Bay Area scene. Greg rose to worldwide fame in the 1980s and left an indelible mark for generations to come.

Throughout his illustrious career, Greg received a multitude of accolades, awards and recognition, celebrating his artistic contributions and unwavering dedication to his craft. As a pioneer with the legendary Beserkley Records, Greg helped write the book on revolutionary West Coast rock and roll. He toured the world, had hit records, and won several awards for his hit songs "Jeopardy", "The Breakup Song", "Remember" and "Lucky". He was celebrated not only for his musical genius, but also for his ability to connect deeply with fans through powerful lyrics and unforgettable storytelling. As a former morning radio host for KFOX for 17 years, as well as a syndicated nighttime radio host across the country, Greg related to and captivated his audiences with real world issues and hysterical tales from his rock star escapades.

Beyond the world of music and radio, Greg was renowned as a great storyteller and novelist with six published novels and a multitude of short stories. He had a unique hobby of breeding rare praying mantis and he also spent time and raised money for operation care and comfort. His kindness and generosity extended far beyond the stage, as he engaged in initiatives to support operation care and comfort as well as other organizations. Friends and family remember him not just as a rock star, but as a warm-hearted individual who brought joy and inspiration to everyone he encountered.

Greg is survived by his wife Jay Arafiles-Kihn, son Ryan Kihn, daughter Alexis Harrington-Kihn, son-in-law Samora Harrington, grandsons Nate Harrington-Kihn and Zuri Harrington-Kihn, sister Laura Otremba, brother-in-law Lou Otremba Jr., and nephews Larry Otremba, Lou Otremba III and Matthew Otremba.

A private memorial celebration of his extraordinary life and legacy will take place with friends and family. A public celebration of life concert for fans and fellow musicians will be announced in the near future.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Greg Kihn's name to The Alzheimer's Association to help end Alzheimer's Disease.

Photo by Jay Gilbert / Eulogy written by Skyler Turtle (courtesy of Michael Brandvold Marketing)