UFO utility man, Paul Raymond, passed away unexpectedly today in Germany. Just days after completing the UK leg of the bands 50th Anniversary "Last Orders" tour, the British keyboardist/guitarist died of a heart attack. His partner, Sandra, shares via Facebook: "Hi to all the fans and people who knew Paul! With a desperate and broken heart, fully in tears and pains that feel like they will kill me, my most beautiful and beloved darling Paul Raymond has passed away today. The doctors were trying to reanimate him, with success at first, but his system shut down and there was nothing more they could do. He absolutely enjoyed the last couple of weeks touring with UFO in the UK & Ireland and he was looking forward to the rest of this year's tour."
The band comments: "We are shell-shocked. RIP Paul."
Founder, and former bassist/songwriter for the band, Pete Way shares, "I've just heard the sad news of Paul Raymond's passing. I won't pretend that we were the best of friends, but I'm completely shattered to hear this. My sincere condolences go out to his family, particularly Sandra. I'm gonna miss you, mate. Sleep tight."
UFO has removed all future tour dates from their website (including a US run in the fall) and replaced them with word of Paul's death. Paul played on and off with the band since 1977, and is considered a key member, ushering in their most successful, "Lights Out" era. Paul Raymond was 73.