Engelbert Humperdinck's wife Patricia has died at the age of 85.
Patricia and Engelbert Humperdinck
The 84-year-old singer has announced the death of his wife - who had been battling Alzheimer’s and had also recently tested positive for COVID-19 - via social media.
He wrote on Facebook: "Dear Friends, Please forgive the silence, after the unbelievable response to our plea for prayers. Our family is heartbroken over the loss of my darling wife.
"Last night , she slipped softly away, as if by Gods clockwork. The last rites were given just before our usual prayers at the 8pm hour, by our nephew, Father Paul. It was 4am for him.
"We were so grateful to have him gently lead Popea through this last chapter, with a familiar voice and such love. She was surrounded by our children, Louise, Jason, Brad, with Scott on FaceTime.
"Her longtime caregivers lovingly helped make her transition easier on us all. Her earthly limitations no longer hold her down as she is freely running the glorious gardens of Heaven, reunited with so many loved ones.
"We prayed as a family, blessed her with the water from Lourdes and off she went… ushered into the arms of Jesus with help from the generous heart filled prayers from all around the world. (sic)"
The music star observed that Patricia bravely battled Alzheimer’s over a number of years.
Engelbert - who married Patricia in 1964 - continued: "I thank those who reached out in what we now know were her final days, and sent energy, love and words of deep connection to a loving God. He will be the ultimate Caregiver of peace and love.
"Patricia battle with Alzheimer’s was brave from the very beginning. She never resisted as we tried to leave no stone unturned.
"We love you beyond words, forever and always. It is slipping now into the minutes of a full day without you. Goodnight my baby. (sic)"