Blake Shelton's father, Dick Shelton, died on Jan. 17 after an extended illness.

According to a post on Blake's website, "Mr. Shelton, who was in declining health this past year, was surrounded by loved ones in Oklahoma upon his passing this evening,"

"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," Blake posted on his website.

Blake was noticeably distraught at the American Country Awards in December, and dedicated his Music Video of the Year and Music Video of the Year by a Male Artist wins to his father. “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,” Blake said. “I love you, Dad, and I dedicate this to you, man. Thank you.”

Due to this unfortunate event, the following dates of his Well Lit & Amplified Tour 2012 have been rescheduled: Rapid City, S.D. (Jan. 19), Bismarck, N.D. (Jan. 20), Billings, Mont. (Jan. 21) and Bozeman, Mont. (Jan. 22). The new dates have been posted at blakeshelton.com.