R.I.P. Luke LeBlanc (1972-2015)

The Sault Metal Scene sends it's deepest condolences out to the family and friends of former Half Past frontman Luke LeBlanc, who reportedly passed away last week from serious medical complications, at just 42 years of age. Luke is survived by his daughter Shaun, his parents, three siblings, and six nieces and nephews. His obituary was posted on SooToday yesterday, where it was revealed that his services will be held this Thursday at The O’Sullivan Funeral Home at 7:00 PM with Reverend Eric Pannike presiding, and visitation will begin at 5:00 PM. Luke's family is requesting that donations be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association or the charity of your choice. In the local music scene from recent years, Luke is best known for fronting defunct local hard rock band Half Past from 2009-2011 during their local peak and brief CD plans, before his departure from the band in February 2011, largely remaining outside of major public music work after that.

From when I knew Luke during the Half Past days, he was a funny and personable guy, and a very talented singer, and hopefully that's what people who knew him can look back on despite some of the troubling stuff we'd heard in recent years. He had musical gifts that it's a shame were never fully fleshed out, but hopefully he's at peace now, and I hope his daughter and family are staying strong at this difficult time. Here's a video of Luke covering Tool and Helmet songs at the former Foggy Notions in 2010, and R.I.P. Luke, you will be missed!