Mark Volman from The Turtles has passed away: founding member of the group that recorded the hit Happy Together.

Mark Volman, singer of The Turtles, has passed away

According to The Sun: Singer Mark Volman, widely known for the hit 'Happy Together', has died at the age of 78.

The legendary artist, one of the co-founders of the famous 1960s group, passed away on Friday after a 'short, unexpected illness.'

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The renowned rocker passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, his representative reported.

Mark Volman, one of the coordinators of The Turtles, also gained fame for his performances of hits like 'It Ain’t Me Babe', 'You Baby', 'She’d Rather Be with Me' and 'Elenore.'

In 2020, he revealed that he was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia.

In 2023, the artist candidly shared his experiences regarding tremors and hallucinations.

Mark grew up in Los Angeles, and his music career began back in high school in 1963.

He joined his classmate Howard Kaylan, the frontman of The Turtles, in a band originally called The Crossfires.

Almost immediately, the collective received a new name — The Turtles, and their first hit reached the Top 10 in 1965.

This breakthrough came thanks to the cover of Bob Dylan's song 'It Ain’t Me Babe.'

After that, the band gained popularity with hits like 'Happy Together.'

Volman became a fan favorite thanks to his smile and curly hair.

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The group broke up in 1970, after which Volman and Kaylan formed a duo called Flo & Eddie.

They toured and performed alongside rock legend Frank Zappa, as well as provided backing vocals for stars like Duran Duran and Bruce Springsteen.

In 2023, he released a memoir titled 'Happy Forever', where he described his vibrant moments.

The book contained stories about parties with Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon.

At the age of 40, Volman earned a master's degree in screenwriting from Loyola Marymount University.

He also taught music at Belmont University in Nashville.

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Opening up about his battle with Lewy body dementia in 2020, Volman shared his experiences.

“I realized that this would create a whole new part of my life,” he said in 2023.

“And I said: 'Whatever will be, will be, but I will go where I can.'”

Volman continued touring with Happy Together, taking medication to control tremors and hallucinations.

Volman's last Instagram post contained touching words encouraging his followers to stay strong and unite during the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.

Volman is survived by his wife Emily Volman, ex-wife Pat Volman, their daughters Hallie Volman and Sarina Miller, along with brother Phil Volman.

Getty Mark Volman left a significant mark on the music world. As one of the pioneers of popular music from the 60s, his contribution to rock music and the spirit of The Turtles will be remembered by fans worldwide. His story inspires many musicians today, and his works will long live in the hearts of fans.