NEW YORK — Gary Richrath, 65, a former guitarist for the band REO Speedwagon who also co-wrote the group’s hit song “Take It on the Run,” died Sunday, according to a publicist for the band.

Richrath was born in October 1949, according to public records. He was a member of the band when its self-titled debut was released in 1971 and was with the band until 1989.

Richrath co-wrote some of the band’s songs, including “Take It on the Run,” which became a Top 5 pop hit on the Billboard charts.