Eric was the heart and soul of KISS after he replaced Peter Criss in May 1980. After his audition, he asked for Ace's, Paul's and Gene's autographs because he wasn't sure that he made the cut. Eric was willing to sweat blood to bring KISS back to its glory days. Unfortunately in early '91, Eric was diagnosed with cancer. His death later that year was a sad one, not only that KISS lost a dear friend, but his fans did too. Rock on Eric, may you rest in peace.