Danny Federici, founding member of the E Street Band and a key contributor to the band's trademark layered sound, died on Thursday (4/17) after a three-year battle with melanoma. Federici was 58.

In a statement on Bruce Springsteen [ tickets ]'s official site, Springsteen said "Danny and I worked together for 40 years - he was the most wonderfully fluid keyboard player and a pure natural musician. I loved him very much...we grew up together."

Federici last performed with Springsteen on the tour's March 20th show in Indianapolis, a surprise guest appearance that showcased several songs associated with Federici's organ and accordion contrbutions, including "Fourth of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)" and "Kitty's Back."

Federici left the tour following the band's November 19th, 2007 show in Boston, MA. At the time, Springsteen hired Charlie Giordano, keyboardist from the Seeger Sessions touring band, to temporarily fill in for Federici while he focused on cancer treatment.

In recent shows, Springsteen's mention of Federici's absence from the stage shifted from wishes for Federici's healthy and speedy return to the band to "we send our prayers to Danny."

According to Springsteen's website statement, fans are asked to donate to the Danny Federici Melanoma Fund in lieu of flowers. A website for the fund, created by Federici's son Jason, has launched at www.thedannyfedericimelanomafund.com.

Upcoming Springsteen shows in Florida on Friday and Saturday have been postponed, and new dates will be announced.

LiveDaily's Bruce Springsteen [ tickets ] community is posting remembrances and condolences on the passing of Danny Federici.

Video: Danny Federici's final bows with the E Street Band after the band's performance in Boston on November 19, 2007.