Rock Guitarist Ronnie Montrose, who formed a group that carried his name and played with some heavy hitters from the rock, has died, his reservations, said on Sunday.

Montrose died Saturday at his home in Millbrae, agent Jim Douglas said. He was 64.

Montrose was in poor health for some time, battling prostate cancer and "personal demons," said Douglas.

Besides the formation of the group in 1973, Montrose spoke with many of the rockers, including Sammy Hagar, Herbie Hancock, Van Morrison, Boz Scaggs, and the group Edgar Winter.


"The guy was such a legendary figure for many people," said Douglas. "He has influenced many bands."

Douglas described the Montrose, as "one of the founders of the Farmers' rock 'n' Roll", and his wife Montrose, in Leighsa, said his work ethic.

"It was very hard on myself," she told San Francisco Chronicle. "He will be playing shows where there will be three standing ovations, and all he will say on the way home that he did not do right."

Montrose is working to release his first DVD, and was about to go on a spring tour later this month, which would take him to the U.S., said Douglas.

In addition, his wife, Montrose left a daughter and five grandchildren. Services pending.