Roger Whittaker: British singer known for The Last Farewell dies at 87

Roger Whittaker, British musician popular for Schlager music, has passed away at the age of 87. According to a family statement reported by German media Bild, he suffered a heart failure on September 13 and died in a hospital in southern France. Whittaker had been battling various health issues, including clogged arteries and problems with his hands and legs. He underwent multiple surgeries and even suffered an aneurysm, but he continued to perform in concerts and tours, demonstrating his passion for music. 

Whittaker is known for his hit songs Durham Town, The Last Farewell and New World in the Morning. He could sing in many languages including German and French. He studied medicine and later became a musician while teaching at the University of Bangor in Wales. Whittaker is lauded for its style of music, which is a fusion of local folk and other popular songs. He also stands out from other musicians because of his trademark whistling. The British singer rose to fame after his Skye Boat Song, a duet he sang with Des o Connors. Whittaker was famous for his Christmas songs and the version of Streets of London sung by Ralph Mctell in 1969.