The comic world and beyond still mourns after the news spread of Gene Colan’s passing on June 23rd, 2011. If you heard Colan’s name mentioned in a conversation, you are likely to hear nothing but glowing remarks and respect. His contributions to the industry are numerous. He began work in comics in the 1940’s and since then, he spent most of his life drawing. Before his art graced the pages, he spent some time in the military with the Army Air Corps.

While he was primarily known for his art on multiple titles for Marvel Comics, he also drew several books for DC Comics. He has also has credits . Some of his more prominent work for Marvel included a lengthy run on Daredevil and the entirety of the horror series, The Tomb of Dracula. The latter series reached 70 issues. He is also remembered for his work on the satiric publication Howard the Duck. While working with DC, he penciled both Batman titles, Detective Comics and Batman, for several years. During that time, he would also draw DC’s iconic female, Wonder Woman.

This talented creator has performed many feats, two of which were very necessary for the comic medium. Those acts are being the co-creator of the first African-American superhero in mainstream comics, the high flying Falcon, as well as the popular vampire hunter Blade.

Having worked in comics even later in life, one of his recent works included penciling duty for Captain America #601. His artistic talent on this issue with writer Ed Brubaker earned him an Eisner Award for best single issue (or one-shot). Several years prior, he was inducted into the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame. That accomplishment alone is a testament to his abilities and the respect he’s earned as a member of the industry. The Eisner awards he earned due to his terrific work were only a portion of the honors he received in his life.

With the nation’s biggest comic convention, San Diego Comic-Con, only several weeks away, there is sure to be some sort of tribute to him. The comics industry lost a true talent in Gene Colan. Rest in peace Mr. Colan.