SAN JOSE, Calif. — David Kaffinetti, a former member of the fictional/parody rock act Spinal Tap, died on July 11.

The musician, who is known for playing the role of keyboardist Viv Savage in the 1984 cult-classic film “This Is Spinal Tap,” was 79.

News of his passing was confirmed by the longtime Bay Area resident’s more recent band — Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom — on its Facebook page.

“Our brother David Kaffinetti passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday,” the Facebook post reads. “We are devastated by this event. David always had a kind word and a quick wit that would slay you where you stand. Then he’d make you smile doing it! RIP dear brother”

Word of the U.K.-born musician’s passing began to spread over the weekend, with many of his friends and associates posting their reactions to the news on social media.

“Our friend and @spinaltap band member @kaffinetti passed away,” a post reads on the Instagram page of Brand New Pack, a psychedelic folk-rock act from Oakland. “Dave was amazing guy. I had the opportunity to open for his band MOAWK featuring my close friend @tomfalletti, hang out with him, and even have him record keyboards on a tune I produced. We’ll miss your infectious laugh and great playing.”

Besides performing in “This Is Spinal Tap,” Kaffinetti (also known as David Kaff) reportedly appeared as a member of the fictional band during its appearance on “Saturday Night Live” in 1984.

“This Is Spinal Tap” enthusiasts certainly remember Kaffinetti for the philosophical catchphrase — “Have a good time, all the time” — which he uttered as the credits rolled at the end of the movie.

Kaffinetti was also known for his work in the prog-rock act Rare Bird, which released five studio albums during its run from 1969 to 1975 and scored a hit in its native U.K. with the single “Sympathy.” He was very active on the Bay Area music scene during his years living in the East Bay.

Spinal Tap has been in the news as of late with fans looking forward to the release of a long-awaited sequel — “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.”

The current lineup of the fictional band, as listed on the Spinal Tap Wikipedia page, is vocalist-guitarist David St. Hubbins (played by Michael McKean), lead guitarist Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest), bassist Derek Smalls (portrayed by Harry Shearer), keyboardist “Caucasian” Jeffrey Vanston and drummer Gregg Bissonette.

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