JON OLIVA'S PAIN guitarist Matt LaPorte, who passed away at his home in Florida on Wednesday, April 20th, will be laid to rest on Saturday, April 30th at the Moss Feaster Funeral Home in Largo, Florida. Go to this location for information.

Matthew Davis LaPorte- September 11, 1970 - April 20, 2011

The band has issued the following statement with regards to the funeral:

"Please pass this information on to everyone you know. Anyone wishing to send flowers or whatever should send them directly to the funeral home in care of Matthew LaPorte so that floral companies locally will be able to inform the service personal upon delivery.

It's been a very rough week for all of us, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support of him, JOP and of course his family and friends. We look forward to seeing you on Saturday to celebrate his life together."

Warm regards,

JOP

Following is the band's tribute to LaPorte:

"Matt was a brilliant guitar player on all levels. He understood that instrument better than almost anyone. His knowledge of music in general was just amazing. His contributions to JOP and every band he ever played with was also without measure. He was truly a one-guitar army when he needed to be and his solo performances on all the JOP CDs will forever send chills down our spines. A near 20-year history and friendship with one of the true greats has now ended and we are deeply saddened.

Matt was a fan of all kinds of music and instruments, having even embarked on a mission to conquerthe hammered dulcimer...one of the hardest instruments to play. He was always tryingto expand his musical horizons and influences. He marveled at the musical greats, both old and new. He was never one to rate his talents above others and often commented about the great new music and artists he had just discovered.

Criss Oliva was without a doubt his most profound influence, and anyone who saw him play SAVATAGE songs knew that Criss was channeling his talents via Matt. Matt's attention to detail and always striving to play everything perfect is without comparison. We would sit for hours during rehearsals with him muddling over whether a guitar chord was played exactly as recorded. Sometimes frustrating, but always appreciated in the end. He was the professionals' professional when it came to his guitar skills, and the loss of such a talent will be forever felt.

Matt was a gentle soul, and would avoid conflict at all costs. He got along with everyone and greeted all with a smile on his face. There was a shyness and almost embarrassment felt by him from the adoration of his fans around the world...and he had many. He was humbled by the love and respect music fans gave to him, but in a quiet way, that made him work just a little bit harder. His had a hilarious, twisted and often sarcastic sense of humor that was unique to him. A very funny man indeed.

We miss you terribly Matt, and we will celebrate your music and life each and every day. That great band in the sky just got a whole lot better, and you are in the most peaceful place you could have ever hoped for. Until we meet again..."