Sad news from the Def Leppard camp this past week as singer Joe Elliott's father, who had been ill for a number of weeks, passed away in a U.K. hospital.

The group offered a message of thanks to fans for their support.

“Thank you to everyone for your support of Joe during such a difficult time regarding the very sad passing of his father Joe Elliott, Sr. From all the band, we sincerely appreciate your condolences, sympathies, and strengthening wishes....”

A number of Def Leppard/Heart shows have been postponed and are being rescheduled.