George Tickner, Founding Member Of Journey, Dead At 76

CALIFORNIA — George Tickner, a founding member of the iconic San Francisco rock band Journey, has died, former bandmate Neal Schon announced Tuesday on Facebook.

Tickner, who was 76, was the band's original rhythm guitarist and a songwriting contributor on their first three albums, according to information shared by Schon.

"RIP brother," Schon wrote. "God Speed."

Tickner cofounded Journey in 1973 in San Francisco, having previously been a member of psychedelic rock group Frumious Bandersnatch, according to KTLA. As Journey rose to fame, Tickner traded music for medicine, leaving to attend Stanford Medical School on a full scholarship after their debut album, the outlet reported.

He continued to stay in touch with the band, forming The Hive recording studio with Journey bassist Ross Valory. He reunited with his bandmates to receive a Hollywood Walk of Fame star.