Deep Purple Founder and Keyboardist Jon Lord Dies, Fans Mourn

Rock & Roll legend Jon Lord succumbed to pancreatic cancer today (July 16).  Lord was 71.  A statement on Lord's website read. "Jon passes from Darkness to Light."  

Lord had founded the band Deep Purple together with guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and co-wrote hit songs including "Smoke on the Water."  Lord was also known for his orchestral work "Concerto for Group & Orchestra."  

Fans old and young have been touched by Lord's music.

"My living legend. There are very few truly gifted Guitar Players in Rock music. There was only one truly gifted Keyboard Player.
A wonderfully eclectic Composer. We'll miss you like crazy. Goodbye Jon," wrote one admirer.

A fan from Chile wrote, "Mourning the departure of such large musician and hoping that your family will find the peace of this sad loss ... my deepest condolences and force for you. from Chile with respect."

"Rip Jon! I am overwhelmed with sadness. I have loved your music since I first heard that dog howl at the beginning of "Hush" in 1968," said an older fan.