R.I.P. Michael Turner [1971-2008]

In case you hadn’t heard, Michael Turner, creator of Fathom, founder of Aspen Comics, and artist on a whole slew of comic books, lost his battle with cancer this past Saturday.

Admittedly, I was never much of a fan of his work, but it’s always sad to see someone that young succumb to an illness, especially considering he’s only two years older than me.

My condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

Links of note:

• Comic Book Resources announcement
• Michael Turner Wikipedia entry

R.I.P. Dave Stevens [1955–2008]

This is a little late (again), but Dave Stevens, creator of the Rocketeer and pin-up artist extraordinaire, passed away on Monday (March 10) from leukemia.  As good as he was, I’ll be extremely sad never to see any new work from him again.

Although it just occurred to me, Steve Gerber died on the 10th (of February) as well.  If I worked in the comic industry, I’d probably start getting really nervous around April 10th.

Links of note:

• Dave Stevens Wikipedia entry
• Mark Evanier’s announcement
• James Hudnall’s announcement

R.I.P. Steve Gerber [1947–2008]

This is a little late, but Steve Gerber, creator of Howard the Duck and Omega the Unknown, passed away on Sunday (February 10) from complications of pulmonary fibrosis.

Somewhat ironically, I spent a lot of Sunday afternoon reading Essential Marvel Horror, Vol. 1, which centers around the Hellstrom family. I was thinking to myself while reading it that Steve’s stories were better than most of the other authors’ tales.

Considering the quality and amount of his creative output, he will be sincerely missed.

Links of note:

• Steve Gerber Wikipedia entry
• Newsarama announcement
• James Hudnall’s announcement
• Mark Evanier’s announcement

Update:

• Big honkin’ list of tributes