Bob "Slim" Dunlap, the former guitarist of The Replacements, has passed away at age 73 due to complications from a 2012 stroke that left him bedridden. He died peacefully at home surrounded by family while listening to his own recording of "Hillbilly Heaven."

Photo Credit: Bob "Slim" Dunlap by JCHaywire / CC by 2.0

Born in 1951 in Plainview, Minnesota, Dunlap joined The Replacements in 1987 following Bob Stinson's departure. He performed on the band's final two studio albums and was credited with reinvigorating the group during their later years.

Beyond The Replacements, Dunlap established himself as a respected songwriter and solo artist. His two solo records earned high praise from Bruce Springsteen, who called them "deeply touching and emotional" in a 2014 NPR interview.

Prior to his successful music career, Dunlap worked various jobs including cab driving and janitorial work to support his family. After suffering a severe stroke in 2012, he received support through all-star fundraising tribute recordings and was cared for by his wife Chrissie at their Minneapolis home.

According to his family's statement, Dunlap's passing was peaceful and came after a natural decline over the past week. His legacy lives on through his influential guitar work with The Replacements and his acclaimed solo recordings that showcased his deep understanding of American roots music.

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