DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy has issued the following:

"It's with the heaviest heart and deepest sorrow that I share the news of the passing of my best friend, my idol and my father, Howard Portnoy.

He passed away this morning (January 4th) at 3:38 AM with his loving wife Trish and myself by his side after a 6 month battle with cancer.

He was an amazing person whose lively spirit was a tremendous inspiration to me and to most people that had the pleasure to know him.

He will be sorely missed by so many friends and family - but none more so than his wife Trish, his daughter-in-law Marlene, his grandchildren Melody and Max and yours truly.

The Spirit Carries On 'Ol Popz......

Carpe Diem,

MP

February 13th 1940 - January 4th 2009."