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Matt Keil, who was once the bassist for Comeback Kid, has passed away following a year of struggling with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disorder that cannot be cured.
At the age of 39, Keil, hailing from Minnesota, played with the Canadian punk group between 2008 and 2014, contributing to their albums ‘Symptoms + Cures’ and ‘Die Knowing.’
The father-of-two was diagnosed with the devastating neurological disorder on May 2, 2024.
ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects the neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the deterioration of muscle control and is ultimately a terminal condition without any known treatment.
Comeback Kid posted a heartfelt tribute to the former bassist on social media, confirming he passed away on Sunday.
‘It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our longtime friend and previous bass player Matt Keil,’ the band said.
‘He was such an amazing friend and musician. Just the greatest guy to tour with, be around, and explore the new countries in the world with.
‘We are sending our love to his wife Maddie and his two daughters and want to honor his memory for our all years to come. We love you Matt K.’
Matt Keil (left), 39, played bass guitar with the Canadian punk band Comeback Kid from 2008 to 2004
The father-of-two was diagnosed with the devastating neurological disorder on May 2, 2024
Keil was featured on two of Comeback Kid’ albums, ‘Symptoms + Cures’ and ‘Die Knowing’
About half of ALS patients have a life expectancy of three years after the initial onset of symptoms, though some can survive for decades.
The rare and incurable degenerative condition impairs the nervous system over time and causes the muscles to increasingly suffer from paralysis.
After his diagnosis, Keil’s loved ones launched a GoFundMe to support his wife Maddie and their two daughters, Ellie, 9, and Zoey, 7.
‘You may know Matt Keil as a loving husband of 12 years to Maddie, or as a dedicated father,’ the fundraiser said.
‘You may also know him as a successful realtor, impassioned musician, and member of the Twin Cities community. However Matt has been a part of your life, you know that he is one of the kindest, most generous, hilarious, and genuine people.
‘Matt would love nothing more than to live the rest of his years spending time with his family, traveling to the lake in Wisconsin, golfing, making music with friends, cheering on his daughters at soccer and gymnastics, or watching silly movies with the love of his life.’
Keil leaves behind his wife Maddie (top right) and their two daughters, Ellie (bottom left), 9, and Zoey, 7 (bottom right)
Loved ones described Keil as ‘one of the kindest, most generous, hilarious, and genuine people’
His wife released a heartbreaking tribute reflecting on their marriage after his passing.
‘It is with a shattered heart that I share that the love of my life and my very best friend passed away yesterday afternoon after a 19-month-long battle with ALS,’ she said.
‘We shared a harmonious marriage filled with laughter and joy. He was an amazing parent, my own personal comedian, and the very best partner. I will miss you for the rest of my life. I love you forever.’
