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REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin wrote on the band's official Facebook page that Richrath died Sunday, saying his bandmate was "the embodiment of the tough guy with a heart of gold."

Richrath joined the band in 1971 and left in 1989, replaced by Miles Joseph as lead guitarist, according to the band's official site.

He recorded 12 albums with the band and wrote the hit "Take It On The Run," released in 1980.

Richrath last performed with REO Speedwagon in 2013 for Rock to the Rescue, Music News reported.

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The skyline of downtown Atlanta is visible from Centennial Olympic Park, which is about a 10-minute walk from the FIFA Club World Cup games happening at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Christine Tannous/AJC 2021)

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Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat speaks during a press interview at the district attorney’s office in Atlanta on Friday, July 12, 2024. Public safety officials presented findings from a report on repeat offenders. (Arvin Temkar / AJC)

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