Stevie Nicks (Kevin Mazur / Getty Images)

Music Icon's Younger Brother Dead After Cancer Battle

Few singers from the 1970s are as legendary as Stevie Nicks. She was one of the driving forces behind Fleetwood Mac's monumental success on classic albums like Rumours. As a solo act, she was equally sensational, With her distinctive voice and flowing blonde tresses, she became a fan favorite and still is to this day. Sadly, Stevie Nicks, 78, has just had a very painful tragedy in her family. Her brother and only sibling, Christopher, passed away on Friday, September 4, following a cancer battle, per Page Six. He was 72 years old.

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Like the late Dolly Parton, he chose not to widely share the information about his illness. That was because he reportedly did not want to cause people any worry.

"A Broken Heart"

Christopher Nicks' daughter, Nixi Parkinson Nicks, let the public know of her dad's death via a sorrowful

Facebook announcement. She wrote, "It is with a broken heart that I announce the passing of my father, Christopher A. Nicks, early this morning, surrounded by family. Some of you may know that he has spent the last 2.5 years battling a cancer diagnosis, and to some this may come as a shock. If this is news to you, please know it was because he never wanted people to worry about him that he kept this to himself."

Furthermore, Nixi added, "I know that he has left his mark on so many people, and this will leave many more than his immediate family with a piece of them missing. I know I speak for my dad when I say that his friends, his lost boys, meant the world to him. Rest easy, Coach. We will see you in Neverland."

People Reached Out in Sympathy

Many people left kind messages on Facebook either celebrating Nicks' life or forlornly mourning his passing. One especially memorable expression of regret about his death came from Lori Nicks, his former wife and Nixi's mom. She wrote beneath Nixi's tribute, "Beautifully said my angel. And as the mother of a very dear friend of Christopher's said... 'He loved life!' and no doubt he lived it to the fullest... Following his own rules!!! We will all miss him, in so many ways..."

From someone else came this. "I am completely devastated. From the moment I met Christopher I felt like I'd met my little brother. He was always so kind to me , and we shared the same sense of humor and work ethic. The last time I saw him was about a year and a half ago as the Palisades fires were raging...."

And there was yet another post conveying love and grief. "On all of the tours I did with your Dad, he treated me so kind and was always a pleasure to travel with. He'd keep me laughing watching his crazy antics...."

Stevie Nicks Has Not Apparently Commented on Christopher's Death But a Member of Fleetwood Mac Did

Mick Fleetwood made his emotions clear regarding Christopher Nicks' passing. He posted this on Instagram. "The passing of Chris Nicks has brought so many memories of his amazing life.. much of course was shared connected to Fleetwood Mac.. His zest for life will be a forever beacon of inspiration !! Chris you will be missed by me and I know the Family of Fleetwood Mac.Peace and love .. Mick Fleetwood."

A beautiful, black-and-white throwback pic of Stevie and Christopher was alongside the message.