Cause Of Death Revealed For Beach Boys Legend Brian Wilson

The official cause of death for legendary songwriter and Beach Boys founding member Brian Wilson was revealed on Thursday.

Wilson, who passed away weeks ago at the age of 82, died of respiratory arrest, according to a death certificate obtained by entertainment website TMZ. Respiratory arrest, the site explained, occurs when the heart is still beating, but the lungs cease to function, thus failing to deliver oxygen to the body.

Several other conditions were listed as contributing factors in the musician’s death, including sepsis, cystitis, neurodegenerative disorder, chronic kidney disease and respiratory failure, and obstructive sleep apnea.

Wilson was just 19 when he founded the iconic band alongside brothers Dennis and Carl Wilson, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine — and the group made the laid-back surfing vibe into a musical movement. They solidified themselves as rock stars with 1966’s Pet Sounds album, which included standouts like “Good Vibrations” and “God Only Knows.”

Wilson struggled publicly with his mental health in his later years, once telling People Magazine, “I’ve been through a great deal of mental anguish. I felt like a fat slob. It was very embarrassing. I used to go onstage and it was scary. Now I’m getting used to it. I feel a little more confidence in myself.”

He was placed under a conservatorship just over a year before he died — and following the death of his wife, Melinda — due to a “major neurocognitive disorder.”

“This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household and Brian and the children living at home will be taken care of and remain in the home where they are cared for by Gloria Ramos and the wonderful team at the house who have been in place for many years helping take care of the family,” a statement from his family read. “Brian will be able to enjoy all of his family and friends and continue to work on current projects as well as participate in any activities he chooses.”