It is with great sadness that we report that former Forbidden and Nevermore guitarist Tim Calvert has passed away. The 52-year-old died yesterday (30th) morning after losing a battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), which his sister, Vicky Calvert-Hawkins, revealed he kept his illness private. Calvert was with Forbidden from 1989-1997 and worked on 1990s’ Twisted Into Form, 1994’s Distortion and 1997’s Green. He was also with Nevermore from 1997-2000 and played on 1999’s Dreaming Neon Black. After his stint as a musician, he became a commercial airline pilot.

His sister Vicky commented:

“Heaven has gained another 😇 angel, my big bro, Tim Calvert. Tim passed away peacefully, Monday morning, after a long battle with ALS (Tim chose to keep his illness private). Myself, and my husband Bret, (along with several wonderful doctors, and hospice providers) are so honored to have been able to be Tim’s caregiver, in our home, for the last 5 months. We are so incredibly thankful to have had this time to spend with Tim. November 7, 1965 – April 30, 2018. Note the dash “-“ in the dates. Life is all about how you live your dash “-“….. And you, my dearest Timothy, did one hell

of a bad ass, bang up job, living your dash to its fullest. Well done! Incredible musician 🤘🏼🎸, airline Captain 👨🏻‍✈️ ✈ , world traveler 🌎 , lover of nature 🐞🌲 and animals 🐶🦇🐱, faithful Oakland Raiders 🏈 & Oakland A’s ⚾ fan, comedian 😆, and supreme master guru of WW II military/aviation history and memorabilia. I love you, big bro❤ Cheers, until I see you again 😘”

Forbidden expressed their sorrow:

“Beyond sorrow. We just found out Tim Calvert has passed. Some have known he was battling an aggressive form of ALS for a while now. It was all very private as per his wishes.

The greatest songwriter, musician and guitarist I have ever had the pleasure or creating music with has left the building. Tim’s genius will live on forever in the 3 Forbidden records he helped create with us.

Rest in Peace, Tim.

Craig “

 

Truly a sad day today to learn about the passing of my dear friend and fellow bandmate Tim Calvert. Not just an incredible guitarist and songwriter, but one who followed his love and passion for aviation to become an airline captain. To this day I’m blown away by all of his accomplishments. ALS is a horrible disease and took my friend away far too soon. May you Rest In Peace Tim.

A post shared by Jeff Loomis Official (@jeffloomis1) on Apr 30, 2018 at 5:37pm PDT

Just landed back in Australia to the news that Tim Calvert has passed away. God damn, ALS is the worst fucking thing! He was 1 of the most underrated players in Metal, gone to soon #Forbidden #Nevermore #TimCalvert

— Jake Weber (@JakeWeberGuitar) May 1, 2018

We send our condolences to Calvert’s friends and family during this difficult time.