Malcolm Young, the guitarist and co-founder of rock band AC/DC, passed away at the age of 64 over the weekend surrounded by his family. He's the second member of his family to die in the last month, and he had been retired for three years.

AC/DC at the Premiere of 'AC/DC - Live at River Plate' in 2011AC/DC at the Premiere of 'AC/DC - Live at River Plate' in 2011

The Scottish-Australian rocker, who created AC/DC with his brother Angus Young in 1973, died following a three-year battle with dementia on Saturday (November 18th 2017). The sad news comes less than a month after his older brother and producer George Young lost his life.

'Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young', the band wrote on their website and their Facebook page. 'With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band. As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man. He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted. He took great pride in all that he endeavored. His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed.'

'As his brother it is hard to express in words what he has meant to me during my life, the bond we had was unique and very special', Angus continued. 'He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on forever. Malcolm, job well done.'

Malcolm had been retired from the band since 2014 after becoming seriously ill. His nephew Stevie Young filled in for him on AC/DC's 2015 Rock or Bust World Tour. The fifth Young son, George, died on October 22nd 2017 at the age of 70. He was the guitarist for Easybeats, and was a producer for AC/DC for many years.

'Renowned for his musical prowess, Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many', came a statement from his family, as reported by Rolling Stone. 'From the outset, he knew what he wanted to achieve and, along with his younger brother, took to the world stage giving their all at every show. Nothing less would do for their fans.'

His last live performance was in Bilbao, Spain on the band's Black Ice Tour in June 2010. Foo Fighters paid tribute to the rocker with a cover of 'Let There Be Rock' during their show at Mexico's Corona Capital Festival.

More: Brian Johnson talks leaving the AC/DC tour

Malcolm Young is survived by his sister Margaret Horsburgh and surviving brothers Angus, William Jr and John Young.