On July 14th, 1999 the world became a sadder place due to the death of Gar Samuelson. Gar died from undiagnosed liver complications. He was 41 years old.

Gar was born in Dunkirk, NY. He played with several bands in the NY area until the late 70's at which time he moved to California. After leaving Megadeth, Gar moved to Florida and formed the band "Fatal Opera" with his brother Stew.

I first met Gar in NYC at The Ritz on the evening of September 27th, 1985 (the day that Hurricane Gloria hit NYC). I had gone down to the club at the request of the Nuclear Assault band members, to see Slayer and Megadeth play. I was the only person affiliated w/ Nuclear Assault that lived in NYC and could get there despite the hurricane. I arrived about 15 minutes before Megadeth left the stage. I was being harassed near the bar by a guy with way too many hormones when another guy walked over and asked him why he was bothering his girlfriend. I didn't know this new guy, but I figured I would play along. The first guy apologized and was so scared he left the club. I asked my rescuer his name. He said his name was Gar, and I realized he was the drummer from Megadeth. He was surprised to find out that I was the manager for Nuclear Assault, as they were expecting an old guy in a suit. I offered to buy him a beer as a thank you for my rescue. We became good friends after that. 

Gar was a kind, talented and wonderful person and friend. He will be missed deeply.    
   

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