It's almost hard to believe that it's been a year since we've lost Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington.
Bennington died via suicide by hanging in his home, just outside of Los Angeles. He was discovered by a housekeeper and shortly after, a bandmate arrived to pick him up for a scheduled photo shoot, only to see what had happened. He was laid to rest at the end of July, surrounded by friends and family. Today, Linkin Park marked the tragic anniversary with a message to fans and to Chester:
“To our brother Chester,
“It has been a year since your passing—a surreal rotation of grief, heartbreak, refusal, and recognition. And yet it sill feels like you are close by, surrounding us with your memory and your light. Your one-of-a-kind spirit has authored an indelible imprint on our hearts—our jokes, our joy, and our tenderness.
“Eternally grateful for the love, life, and creative passion you shared with us and the world. We miss you more than words can express.
“Love,
“M, J, D, R, B”
Bassist Dave Farrell also chimed in with a tribute of his own:
“In the past year, there hasn’t been a day that has gone by that I haven’t thought of you. I miss you, and it still hurts to not have you here. I chose not to speak at your memorial because I couldn’t formulate the words to adequately express how I felt… I chose not to speak at the Celebration of Life Concert honoring you because I knew I’d struggle to even be able to speak at all. And today, a year after your passing, I still struggle to try and eloquently express what you mean to your family, your friends, your fans… and to me. There is so much that I feel, and that I could say, and that I would want to say, and that I don’t know how to say… but one thing I know for certain, is that you are loved, and you are missed.
“Be Well My Friend,
“Dave”
