Death Angel Bassist Dennis Pepa Fights Stage 4 Cancer

Dennis Pepa, the founding bassist of thrash metal pioneers Death Angel, has shared a heartfelt update with fans: he is battling stage 4 duodenal cancer. The musician, who helped shape the Bay Area thrash scene in the 1980s, launched a GoFundMe campaign in October 2026 to cover the costs of an experimental immunotherapy treatment in Mexico and support his family during this challenging time.

Pepa, 59, was diagnosed in February 2026 after losing his long-term job, leaving him and his family to navigate mounting medical bills while maintaining everyday expenses. His goal is to raise $150,000 to fund dendritic cell immunotherapy at the Immunocine Cancer Center in Mexico—a treatment that uses his own immune cells and tumor material to create a personalized approach. The funds will also cover travel, six weeks of accommodation, and living expenses for his family back home. As of now, the campaign has raised over $35,000, with the metal community rallying to show their support.

A Legacy in Thrash Metal

Pepa co-founded Death Angel in 1982 alongside guitarists Rob Cavestany and Gus Pepa, and drummer Andy Galeon. The band quickly became a defining act in the Bay Area thrash metal scene, known for their technical precision and high-energy performances. Pepa played bass and briefly served as lead vocalist before Mark Osegueda joined in 1984. He remained with the band through their initial run until 1991 and again during their reunion from 2001 to 2008, when he parted ways due to creative differences.

Death Angel has since continued with bassist Damien Sisson, but Pepa’s influence on the band’s early sound remains undeniable. His contributions helped shape albums like The Ultra-Violence (1987) and Act III (1990), which are now considered classics in the genre.

A Personal Battle with a Community Behind Him

In his GoFundMe statement, Pepa expressed his determination to fight for his family, particularly his sons, Maddox (22) and Roman (19), and his fiancée, Gemalyn. "I want to carry on watching my sons grow and build lives of their own," he wrote. "I want to marry Gemalyn and continue being present for the people I love most."

The band has urged fans to support Pepa, emphasizing the strength of the metal community. "He really needs the Metal community and beyond to come together and show their support in unity," they wrote in a statement. "Any little bit helps more than you know, including your positive energy, thoughts, and prayers."

How Fans Can Help

For those looking to support Dennis Pepa, here’s what you can do: - Donate to the GoFundMe campaign: Every contribution, no matter the size, helps Pepa reach his $150,000 goal. The funds will directly support his treatment and family expenses. - Share the campaign: Spreading the word on social media or within local music communities can amplify support. - Send positive thoughts: As the band noted, emotional support plays a crucial role in Pepa’s fight.

The metal community has a long history of coming together in times of need, and this is no exception. With Pepa’s resilience and the collective strength of fans worldwide, there is hope for a brighter path ahead.