Country star Blake Shelton’s father dies

The Voice judge and country star Blake Shelton’s father, Dick Shelton, died Tuesday. Shelton announced the news Wednesday, adding that he will have to postpone tour dates.

In the announcement, Shelton thanked his fans for their support. "I appreciate your understanding during this difficult time and thank you for all your prayers. Your support means the world to me. I love you guys," Shelton said.

In the announcement, Shelton’s website added that Dick Shelton had been in “declining health this past year,” although it did not detail what the exact cause of death was.

E! News reports that Shelton will have to postpone four of his “Well Lit & Amplified” tour dates this month. Dates in Bismarck, ND, Rapid City, SD, Bozeman, MT and Billings, MT have been rescheduled for March and refunds will be provided.

The tour will start up again in Columbus, GA on Jan. 26.

According to People, Shelton had first mentioned that his father’s health was not good when he accepted his first award at the 2011 American Country Music Awards. "I want to say hi to my dad back home ... he's been having a pretty rough couple of weeks, and I know he's watching tonight...I love you, Dad, and I dedicate this to you, man. Thank you,” Shelton said when he picked up the award. He reportedly flew straight back to Oklahoma to be with his family after the awards show.

Shelton was nominated for three Grammys and is set to sing “America The Beautiful” with wife Miranda Lambert at the Super Bowl, notes The Associated Press.