Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman had health issues, but his band mates didn't know the extent of his alcohol-induced liver condition prior to his death, according to the band's website.
The band said in a message to fans that Hanneman died of alcohol-related cirrhosis and not Necrotizing fasciitis infection (a flesh-eating disease) that devastated his well-being.The guitarist was forced to have multiple operations last year to remove dead flesh, according to TMZ.
"Contrary to some reports, Jeff was not on a transplant list at the time of his passing, or at any time prior to that," Slayer said on their website. "In fact, by all accounts, it appeared that he had been improving - he was excited and looking forward to working on a new record."
Hanneman, who was 49, passed away of liver failure May 2 at a California hospital. He is survived by his wife Kathy, sister Kathy and biological brothers Michael and Larry.
Hanneman's bandmates said they thought of him as a brother, paying tribute to him on their website with memories of the metal guitarist. Military museum visits and trying to hitch rides in the rain were among listed reflections.
Hanneman was an anchor for the thrash metal band, writing the songs "Raining Blood" and "Seasons in the Abyss." Hanneman and guitarist Kerry King formed the band in 1981.
Slayer posted on their Facebook page that a celebration of Hanneman's life with family, friends and fans, is being planned for later this month.
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