It's been a tragic week for Celine Dion, with the death of her brother Daniel, 59, following husband Rene Angelil's passing. Daniel had reportedly been fighting brain, tongue and throat cancer and died early on Saturday (Jan. 16).
His funeral will be held at the St-Simon-et-Jude in Charlemagne, Quebec following a tribute at the Salon Charles Rajotte in Repentigny, Quebec. Daniel leaves behind his mother Therese, as well as two daughters, Valerie and Marie Michelle. He is also survived by 13 brothers and sisters and two grandchildren Matis and Laurianne.
The news was confirmed to Billboard and a statement followed on Dion's website.
"Surrounded by his loving family, Daniel Dion, older brother to Celine and eighth child of Therese and Adhemar Dion, passed away peacefully at the age of 59 years old.
His last days were in the wonderful care of the doctors and personnel at Maison Adhemar - Dion, a palliative care center in Terrebonne, Quebec. For those wishing to send flowers, a donation to that organization would be very much appreciated."
It further stated, "The family requests that in honor of their brother's memory, their privacy be respected in this time of grief."
And surrounded by his loving family he was, as all of his 13 brother's and sister's were at his bedside, as well as his mother Therese, 88. His family rushed to the hospital the minute they heard of his condition this past Thursday, and remained in the hospital until he died.
To allow herself time to grieve, Dion has cancelled almost a month's worth of shows for her residency at The Colusseum in Las Vegas and isn't expected to return until Feb. 23. This is not the first time that Dion has put her career on hold for a family member, while her husband was dying of the disease she rushed from Las Vegas to be by his side, as well as canceling a full tour in Asia. But ever her mentor, Angelil insisted that she return to Las Vegas and continue performing despite his condition.
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