In Memoriam

John Romita Sr. – The world of Marvel wouldn’t be what it was today if it wasn’t for the work of this artist. Romita passed away this year at the age of 93 but left a legacy of comic book visuals and quality that won’t soon be forgotten. Though he helped define the look of many characters at Marvel over its long history—Captain America, Wolverine, Punisher—it was Romita’s long run on The Amazing Spider-Man that helped that character become the megastar he is today.
Rachel Pollack – The trans icon behind one of the most fascinating eras on DC’s Doom Patrol, Pollack was a trailblazer for championing queer themes and issues in her comics work and wider writing, and will be forever remembered for paving the way with Coagula, the first openly trans superhero in a DC comic.
Sheldon Menery – One of the defining figures behind Magic: The Gathering’s Commander format, Menery was a champion of both the game’s professional scene, where he served as a judge for many years, as well as the development of Magic’s capacity as a social game, leading to the development and popularization of Commander, now one of the game’s most-played formats.
Keith Giffen – During his comic book career, Giffen helped create a number of now well-known characters for Marvel and DC. In addition to being co-creator of Rocket Raccoon and Jaime Reyes, he helped helm the acclaimed Justice League International series of 1987 with J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire.