Todd Simko Dead: Was Former Pure, Bif Naked Guitarist and Vancouver Producer

Musician and producer Todd Simko, perhaps best known for his work in '90s Vancouver alt-rock group Pure, has died.

"Todd may your soul be finally at peace," his wife Minna Simko wrote on her Facebook page a few hours ago. "You are not only the most fantastic father and husband one could have, but also you were also a great friend, musician, teacher, guide, mentor and music engineer.

"The music community has suffered now a great loss and talent," Simko continued in the post. "Not only did you touch all the hearts of people in music but also in the lives of family, my peers and especially our daughters friends and family. You will forever remain close by in our hearts and you will be greatly missed by all."

Simko along with singer Jody Birch, drummer Leigh Grant, bassist Dave Hadley and keyboardist Mark Henning formed Pure in 1991 and released their debut album Pureafunalia in 1992. The album featured the single "Blast," which earned them a 1993 MuchMusic Video Award as well as a Juno Award nomination for Most Promising Group of the Year. Pure released 1994's Generation Six-Pack and 1998's Feverish albums, then disbanded in 2000.

Following his time in Pure, Simko played guitar for Bif Naked, spent his time mastering, producing and engineering albums for a wide range of artists and on several different projects. Simko worked on albums by the Be Good Tanyas, Marcy Playground, The Organ and Xavier Rudd as well as having credits on last year's album "Music Is... Awesome!, Vol. 3" by popular kids' television show/rock band Yo Gabba Gabba!

"I'm shocked to learn of Todd Simko's passing," Matthew Good tweeted this morning. "My very, very deepest condolences to his wife and family at this time."

Calgary act Woodpigeon also expressed similar sentiments. "I suggest we all listen to a moment of loud sound to mark the passing of Todd Simko, honorary member of the Woodpigeon family," the artist tweeted. "RIP Todd."

Friends from the Vancouver music community have been posting messages on the wall of Simko's Facebook profile.

"Todd Simko, Thanks for lending me all of your cool New Wave records when we were kids," posted former bandmate Jordy Birch. "You were my brother. I will miss you forever. R.I.P."

"I was blessed to have known Todd," posted Terry McBride, the CEO of Nettwerk Music Group, "Where ever his soul is now those that he touches will be inspired..... you will be missed RIP t"

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.