The founding members of the legendary rock band KISS, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, reunited this week in New York to pay their final respects to their former bandmate, Ace Frehley. The iconic guitarist, known as 'Space Ace,' passed away on Thursday, October 16, at the age of 74.
Key Takeaways
- KISS founding members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss attended Ace Frehley's funeral.
- Frehley passed away on October 16, 2025, at 74, following two falls.
- His family confirmed he was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments.
- A tribute show honoring Frehley's legacy is being discussed, with family approval.
- Simmons and Stanley issued a joint statement acknowledging Frehley's irreplaceable role in KISS.
A Somber Reunion for a Rock Icon
The funeral services for Ace Frehley took place in the Bronx, New York. Radio personality Eddie Trunk confirmed the reunion through an Instagram post on Wednesday, October 22. He described the period as an "emotional couple of days" as friends and family said goodbye to a "rock icon and long time friend."
Trunk emphasized that the services were private, attended by a small group of close family and friends. The presence of Simmons, Stanley, and Criss marked a significant moment, bringing together the original lineup of the band that revolutionized rock and roll with their distinctive sound and stage personas.
"It has been an emotional couple of days to say the least saying farewell to a rock icon and long time friend. All of the services went as well as they could and were attended by a small group of family and close friends," Eddie Trunk shared.
Frehley's passing leaves a void in the music world. His unique guitar style and stage presence were central to KISS's early success. The band's theatrical performances and anthemic songs became hallmarks of 1970s rock.
Fact Check
- Ace Frehley's birth name was Paul Daniel Frehley.
- He earned the nickname 'Space Ace' due to his iconic persona in KISS.
- Frehley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of KISS in 2014.
Legacy and Tributes
Following Frehley's death, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley released a joint statement. They expressed their devastation and acknowledged Frehley's crucial role in the band's history. Their words highlighted his indelible mark on KISS's legacy.
"I am devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy," the duo stated. They extended their condolences to Frehley's family, including Jeanette and Monique, and to his global fanbase.
The Impact of 'Space Ace'
Frehley's guitar work was instantly recognizable. His solos were often melodic yet raw, contributing significantly to hits like "Detroit Rock City" and "Shock Me." Many guitarists cite him as a major influence, praising his innovative approach and energetic performances.
His persona, characterized by his signature 'Space Ace' makeup and smoking guitar effects, made him one of rock's most iconic figures. He helped define the visual and auditory identity of KISS during their most influential period.
A Brief History of KISS
KISS formed in New York City in January 1973. The original lineup included Paul Stanley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Gene Simmons (vocals, bass), Ace Frehley (lead guitar, vocals), and Peter Criss (drums, vocals). The band quickly gained fame for their elaborate stage costumes, makeup, and pyrotechnics. They became one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 100 million albums sold worldwide.
A Future Tribute in Discussion
Eddie Trunk also revealed that Frehley's family has given their approval for a potential tribute show. While no concrete plans exist yet, Trunk believes such an event is deserved. He emphasized that it would honor Frehley's legacy, satisfy his dedicated fans, and acknowledge the countless guitar players he inspired.
"That’s something I feel, and many others feel, is deserved and should happen," Trunk wrote. He assured fans that any real news or plans would be shared when available. For now, he encouraged everyone to celebrate Frehley's contributions by listening to his music.
Frehley's Final Days
Frehley's death followed a period of declining health. He experienced two devastating falls, the second of which occurred on October 6. This incident unfortunately led to the cancellation of the remaining concert dates for 2025.
His family confirmed that in his final moments, he was surrounded by love and peace. "In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth," his family stated at the time, providing comfort to fans mourning his loss.
The reunion of the original KISS members, even under such somber circumstances, underscores the deep bonds formed during their formative years. It highlights the enduring impact Frehley had on his bandmates and the music industry as a whole. His music continues to resonate with generations of rock enthusiasts.