Steve Gerber - RIP

Last night long-time customer and pal, Garrie Burr, wrote to tell us that Steve Gerber passed away Sunday at a Las Vegas hospital. As most of your probably know, Steve had been quite ill for a long time, battling pulmonary fibrosis - a usually terminal lung condition.

Steve was born in St. Louis in 1947 and went on to be considered one of the most influential comic book writers of his generation, known for advocating creator's rights and fighting Marvel over some of his characters. Steve is known nationally for his role in co-creating Omega Unknown and Howard the Duck, but locally his "Hard Time" series in the now defunct DC Focus line was extremely popular. He was working on a new Doctor Fate when he passed away.

Steve was extremely influential in the comics business and brought many fans back to the genre after they had grown weary of standard story lines. I've read several comments in retailer-centric forums where retailers have lauded Steve's positive influences. Indeed, he was the driving force behind many retailers opening their own stores - he probably never even knew how influential he was among some of the best retailers in the country.

You can read what the Comics Reporter has had to say on the subject, as well as words from his friend Mark Evanier and his last comments posted to his blog.

And just in case you can't make it to the blog, here's a great suggestion...

Mark Evanier writes:

"Lastly for now, Paul Levitz had a wise suggestion. The Hero Initiative, a charity group that helps ailing comic book creators, had been doing a lot for Steve recently. It would be a nice thought to remember him with a donation in his name. Here’s a link to their website."

Also, Steve's mother has a long history of buying pretty much everything Steve had published - from us at Star Clipper. We plan on sending her a condolence card, and if any of you would like your words added to it, please comment here or stop by the shop and let us know.

Peace, Steve.

-Ben