Sean P. McKeough, a partner and producer of the music megafestival Riot Fest, passed away at the age of 42, Tuesday night.

According to a statement issued by his family and Cobra Lounge:

“Sean McKeough died unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 29th in Arkansas while spending time with his father. His death was the result of a stroke, which has been attributed to the after effects of radiation during his successful treatment of throat cancer in 2013. Sean McKeough was driven by a passion for music. The friendships he built in his youth revolved around music and playing in bands with his friends. It was through his band mates that he was introduced to what became a successful career at the Chicago Board of Options Exchange. His amazing success at the CBOE is what allowed him to pursue his true passion for music.”

A statement was released via Twitter and the festival’s website:

Sean’s partner in Riot Fest, Michael Petryshyn (aka Riot Mike) has issued the following statement. “Sean was Riot Fest’s pillar of strength. I loved him. I admired him. And to lose him is a lonely and barren feeling. I miss my friend immensely. Without Sean and his belief that a little fest could make a positive impact on people’s lives by doing things differently and left of the dial, Riot Fest would have never become such an intimate family. His Herculean-sized heart and volition made that all possible. Anyone lucky enough to have witnessed his kindness and compassion knows Sean’s muddy work boots will never be filled. It’s impossible… he cared when no one else did. He worked when no one else did. And, he believed in Riot Fest when no one else did. Our thoughts are with the entire McKeough family and his beloved partner Erin. You were the closest people to him and without your constant love and support for Sean, his unimaginable impact on thousands of lives may have never been realized. Sean, I will forever be indebted to you. I love you, brother and I’ll make sure that Riot Fest never loses its purpose or vision… the one you saw before any of us.”

A memorial ceremony is being planned for Dec. 10 at St. Barnabas Church, 10134 S. Longwood, Chicago. Information can be found at www.smqmemorial.com.