For Dave...

From The Associated Press:

03/12/2008 03:52:23 PM PDT

TURLOCK, Calif.—Dave Stevens, a respected comic book artist and illustrator and creator of "The Rocketeer," has died at age 52.

Stevens died Monday at a hospital in Turlock due to complications from treatment for leukemia, said his colleague William Stout.

Born July 29, 1955, in Lynwood, Stevens was known for his meticulous work and classic pinup style drawings. He is widely credited for reviving interest in recent years in Bettie Page, the 1950s pinup idol.

His best-known work, "The Rocketeer," about a man who finds a rocketpack that allows him to fly, was made into a 1991 feature film, starring Bill Campbell, Alan Arkin and Jennifer Connelly.

In 1982, Stevens became the first person to win Comic-Con International's Russ Manning Award.

A private funeral service was planned.

I remember when the movie was being filmed - the airport scenes and hanger scenes were filmed in my hometown of Santa Maria.

I loved the movie, loved the character, and was always in awe of Dave Steven's illustrations. I was saddened to hear of his passing. He left his mark. He will be missed.