David Bowie's family planning private funeral

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The statement on Bowie's official Facebook page followed British media reports that the 69 year-old Space Odditysinger has already been cremated quietly in New York without his friends or family in attendance. Reuters could not confirm the reports and Bowie's representatives did not return requests for comment.

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"The family of David Bowie is currently making arrangements for a private ceremony celebrating the memory of their belovedhusband, father and friend," the family's statement said.

It wasdated from England but gave no details about where or when theceremony might take place.

Bowie's death after a secret 18-month battle with cancer andtwo days after releasing a new album caused shock and dismayaround the world and sent sales soaring of both his old and newmusic.

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Radio airplay increased 1,134 per cent from Sunday to Monday,at Nielsen Music-monitored U.S. terrestrial radio stations, itadded.

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"Just as each and every one of us found something unique inDavid's music, we welcome everyone's celebration of his life asthey see fit," the statement added.

Bowie is survived by his model wife Iman of 24 years, adultson Duncan Jones and teenage daughter Alexandria.