We will miss you, Michael.

Yesterday, as I was preparing something for work, a friend of mine startled me with some shocking and saddening news. He told me that Michael Turner, age 37, had passed away due to cancer.

This sad news has greatly affected the fans, as well as the industry.

According to newsarama, Michael Turner passed away last June 27, 2008 at approximately 10:42 PM in Santa Monica, California.

 If you wish to send your condolences to Michael’s family, you may send them to:

Aspen MLT, Inc.
C/O Michael Turner
5855 Green Valley Circle, Suite 111
Culver City, CA, 90230

Back in 2000, Turner was diagnosed with chrondrosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that attacks cartilage. It cost him his right hip, a portion of his pelvis and several pounds of bone. All this time, he never let his life get brought down due to his cancer, even attending conventions.

He started his career with Top Cow. He gained popularity through his work with Witchblade. As most of you know, he’s almost always a cover artist. He left Top Cow and formed his own company, Aspen, Inc. in 2002. After which, he did a lot of work for DC and Marvel, later on.

He’s probably most well-known for his Supergirl and Superman/Batman interiors and covers. One of my favorite covers was one he did for Civil War, with Spider-Man in the Stark armor suit, and Cap’s shield. And that Civil War splash cover with Iron Man and Captain America in the forefront. That was amazing.

I never met Mr. Turner, but I’m sure if I did, I’d go all fanboy on him and have him sign my Daredevil #100 variant. I’d try to shake his hand, and maybe kiss the very ground he stood on. His style and art would be something I look forward to when variants are announced. He drew a fantastic Iron Man and Batman.

The dotPH family and I would like to extend our condolences to his friends and family.

May he rest in peace.

“Pabalik ka na, papunta pa lang ako.”