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Lit drummer Allen Shellenberger succumbs to brain cancer at 39

Alternative Press - Scott Heisel on 8/14/09 @ 11:31 AM - altpress.com

Allen Shellenberger, the drummer for and a founding member of Orange County, California-based rock band Lit, passed away from brain cancer Thursday, August 13, according to a statement released by the band. He was 39.

According to the band, Shellenberger was diagnosed with a malignant glioma brain tumor in May 2008 and immediately underwent clinical trials, chemotherapy and radiation treatments at the Cedars-Sinai Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute. He continued performing with the group until last fall.

The band's joint statement reads: "To know Al was to know laughter. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. Words cannot begin to express how much he will be missed. This was our brother and not a day will go by that we won't think about him. Right now we're trying to find the balance of mourning his loss and celebrating his life. Allen has experienced more in his 39 years than most people dream of in ten lifetimes. This is a tremendous loss for us, our fans, and also for Allen's family who took such good care of him during his battle with cancer."

Lit were best known for 1999's A Place In The Sun album, which landed them on that summer's Warped Tour and had three hit singles, including "Zip-lock," "Miserable" and "My Own Worst Enemy."

Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and fans of Allen Shellenberger.