Update
Sancutary’s Lenny Rutledge has come forward to confirm the passing of Sean Blosl explaining he died from a vehicle related accident. Rutledge issued the following statement on Sanctuary’s Facebook, explaining:
It is with a very heavy heart that I have to announce that Sean Blosl passed away earlier this year. He was involved in a vehicle related accident in Seattle. I have struggled with posting about this news. I am not a fan of the social media death announcements, but I realize that even though I think this is a private family matter, Sean was also a very important part of the Seattle music scene.Sean was my cousin, but to us we were much more like my brothers. We had a musical dream when we were kids that became a reality. Without Sean by my side I don’t know if I would have had the opportunity to make this musical journey. It is very difficult to sum up a lifetime of love, memories and experiences but I will always remember Sean as an inspiration and a teacher.RIP Brother. I will see you on the other side.
Original Post
Former Sanctuary guitarist Sean Blosl has reportedly passed away at the age of 58. According to a brief obituary from The Chronicle and a post in the Sanctuary Band Facebook group, Blosl is said to have died on August 26, 2024, in Seattle. However, details surrounding his reported death remain scarce, and no official confirmation has been provided at this time.
Blosl co-founded Sanctuary with his cousin, guitarist Lenny Rutledge, and later welcomed vocalist Warrel Dane to the lineup. He played a key role in the band’s early years, contributing to their 1988 debut album, Refuge Denied, including co-writing the song “Battle Angels.” The album’s success secured a tour with Megadeth and Warlock.
Blosl also contributed to the band’s sophomore album, Into the Mirror Black, contributing to tracks like “Future Tense” and “Communion.” Soonafter, Blosl left the group and was replaced by Jeff Loomis. By 1991, Sanctuary disbanded leading Dane, Loomis, and bassist Jim Sheppard to form Nevermore.
After his departure, Blosl pursued independent music and filmmaking, creating the 2011 short film Into the Heart of Shiva. Despite Sanctuary’s reunion in 2010, Blosl declined to rejoin the group. The band has continued ever since, including forging on following Warrel Dane’s passing in 2017.
Our thoughts are with Sean Blosl’s family and friends during this difficult time. However, it’s important to note that the circumstances of his reported death remain unconfirmed. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.
