Blake Shelton’s Father Passes Away After Long Illness

It is with sadness that we report The Voice star Blake Shelton's father, Dick, passed away on Tuesday evening after a long period of declining health.

Blake Shelton is rescheduling four shows in the immediate future: Rapid City, SD (1/19), Bismarck, ND (1/20), Billings, MT (1/21) and Bozeman, MT (1/22). These dates will be moved to March. He'll be returning to his regular tour schedule on January 26. You can check for up-to-date tour information here.

"I appreciate your understanding during this difficult time and thank you for all your prayers," Shelton addressed fans on his official site. "Your support means the world to me. I love you guys."

It's reported on Shelton's site that the elder Shelton was in Oklahoma and surrounded by loved ones at the time of his death.

Shelton dedicated his win for Music Video of the Year at last month's American Country Awards to his father, who was unable to attend the ceremonies due to pneumonia.

Prayers go out to the Shelton family for their loss. Be sure to leave your condolences here as well.

Related links:

Country Music 2011 in review

2011 CMA Awards red carpet photos

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