Jürgen Bartsch, founding member of the German blackened doom metal band Bethlehem, has passed away at the age of 62. Vocalist Onielar shared the following statement on social media (translated from German):
“After a serious illness, perseverance and great fighting spirit, our beloved friend and esteemed band founder Jürgen Bartsch passed away on 27 August 2025.
In deep mourning and a broken heart
On behalf of Bethlehem”
Prophecy Productions, the label behind several of Bethlehem’s full-length albums, released the following statement:
“Our first thoughts go out to his family and friends to whom we extend our most heartfelt condolences. We also understand that this sad message will be difficult to come to terms with for his many fans and followers. It is a feeling that all of us at Prophecy Productions share. We are in shock and in mourning as the spirit of this label has always been one of community and of a big family including the artists.”
Martin Koller, founder of Prophecy Productions, added:
“My heartfelt condolences go out to Jürgen’s family and friends”, the label’s founder writes. “I am still in shock, It is hard to deal with this loss and to convey in a few words what a wonderful human being and brilliant artist Jürgen was – as that needs to be left for later: now we are all bound by grief and sorrow. Rest in Peace, Jürgen!”
RIP, Jürgen.
