Doobie Brothers Drummer Dead: Michael Hossack Dies at 65

Michael Hossack, a drummer best known for his work with the Doobie Brothers, died Monday at his home in Dubois, Wyoming, after a battle with cancer. He was 65.

"We're posting this to confirm the sad news that's been circulating very quickly," said the Doobe Brothers in a statement Tuesday. "Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack passed away yesterday... His family was by his side. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and loved ones. We will miss him greatly."

Born in New Jersey, Hossack began playing drums in his pre-teen years before serving in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He planned to pursue a career in law enforcement upon returning in 1969 when a friend coaxed him into auditioning for California group Mourning Reign. The group soon disbanded, but in 1971 the Doobie Brothers asked him to join their band where he would play alongside drummer John Hartman.

"People always ask me if it's hard to play with another drummer," Hossack is quoted as saying in his biography posted on the band's site. "I tell them that after playing along with up to twelve other drummers at once in the drum corps, this is a snap!"

Hossack performed on the band's 1972 sophomore album, 'Toulouse Street,' which features hits such as 'Listen to the Music' and 'Jesus Is Just Alright.' He would also play on additional signatures like 'Blackwater,' 'China Grove' and 'Long Train Runnin'' before leaving the group due to a grueling tour schedule in 1973. After performing in a few groups in the mid-1970s, Hossack became a partner in Chateau Recorders, a North Hollywood recording studio.

In 1987, Hossack was asked to join the Doobie Brothers again for a string of dates benefiting Veterans of the Vietnam War. The shows resulted in the group returning to the studio to record new material.

In 2010, Hossack wrote a message on the band's site explaining why he was not on the road with them. "I have had some problems relating to injuries I received in an auto accident a couple of years ago," Hossack wrote. "I needed to take some time off to address these issues, and get my health back on track. Things are improving, but it may be several months before I'm able to get back to touring."

Watch the Doobie Brothers' Video for 'Need a Little Taste of Love' <

Last January, the group's management made a statement with regards to Hossack's condition. "Michael Hossack is improving slowly. He sends his regards to all our fans. He's still working on health issues but getting better. We will keep you updated on a regular basis."

The Doobie Brothers have yet to make a statement via Facebook or Twitter on Hossack's passing ("currently absent on health leave" is placed next to his bio link on the band's site). The group have a string of dates slated for this spring before hitting the road with Chicago for a lengthy co-headlining U.S. tour.

Hossack leaves behind a daughter and son. Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.