Janie Van Halen shared a heartfelt tribute to her late husband Eddie Van Halen on what would have been their 17th wedding anniversary. She posted a photo from their wedding day on Instagram.
The post included a deeply personal message reflecting her ongoing grief and love for the legendary guitarist, who passed away in October 2020.
“I just miss you,” Janie Van Halen said.
The tribute resonated with fans, who flooded the comments with messages of support. One fan wrote: “True love never dies it stays with you always. Sending lots of love and hugs to you today.” Another added: “What a beautiful photo. You are a class act and most of us remember that you were his wife when he left this world. Hold on to those beautiful memories.”
The anniversary falls on July 27th, marking 17 years since the couple wed in 2003. Their marriage lasted until Eddie’s death and left a lasting impression on those who witnessed their bond.
Janie was by Eddie’s side when he passed on October 6, 2020, at Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California. He was 65 years old. Also present in his final moments were his son Wolfgang, his ex-wife Valerie Bertinelli, and his brother Alex Van Halen — a reflection of the close personal ties he maintained throughout his life.
Eddie had battled cancer for years before his death. The illness began in his tongue, then spread to his throat, lungs, and eventually his brain, affecting all of his vital organs. His death was ultimately caused by a stroke brought on by the advancing disease.
His cancer diagnosis had long been a subject of public discussion. Eddie himself believed that holding metal guitar picks in his mouth for decades was the cause of his tongue cancer. Most medical professionals disputed this claim, pointing instead to a combination of other long-term habits as the more likely contributing factors.
Through it all, Janie remained a constant presence. Her anniversary tribute is a reminder of the private grief that continues behind the public legacy — and of a love that, for her, clearly has not faded with time.
