Written by: Alex Green

Stereo Embers has learned that Frank Watkins, who played with both Obituary and Gorgoroth has died.

He was 47.

Watkins, who got his start playing with Sacrosanct, Bad Rep and Hellwitch, joined the Florida death metal outfit Obituary in 1989 and many credit him for infusing his love of hardcore punk into the band’s sound.

Watkins started playing with the Norwegian black metal band in Gorgoroth in 2007, and made his live debut with them at the Hole In The Sky festival in 2009.

He played under the stage name Bøddel, which translates to “Executioner” in Norwegian.

The members of Gorgoroth issued a statement on their official site, saying: “Rest in peace Frank Watkins (19.02.1968-18.10.2015). He will be missed.”

Meanwhile, the members of Obituary issued this statement on Watkins’ passing: “Just got the very sad news that Frank passed away this morning. Our thoughts and and prayers are with his family.”

Although details are few, reports have suggested that Watkins died of cancer.