It was with a great deal of sadness that I learned of Paul Newman’s death today. Paul and his wife Carol become our friends when his step daughter contacted me about Paul’s work on the Tom Corbett Newspaper Strip.

Paul was a pioneer of the comic book industry and was rightly acclaimed “Comic Book King”. His lifework contains much of the history of comics and his passing will leave a void in the corporate memory of the field.

He was willing to discuss his work and share his knowledge freely with all who asked questions. He will be greatly missed by his friends and by many who didn't know that he was the man behind the script.

He leaves a long and honorable list of accomplishments that will take a great deal of work to list. Some of his accomplishments are noted on his page on the Solar Guard Site. Robin Snyder, comics historian, is compiling a book of Paul’s work that I hope will be available for future generations.

Our symphonies go out to Carol and Paul’s family in their time of loss. It is a loss to all of us. If you would like to send your thoughts or condolences to the family, you may do so by emailing me (cadeted@solarguard.com) and I will pass them on to the family.

Paul was a good friend and will be missed.

The following poem by Mary Lee Hall gave me comfort when I lost my father last year and I hope it will give comfort to Paul's family and friends.

If I should die and leave you here a while,
Be not like others, sore undone, who keep
Long vigil by the silent dust and weep,
For my sake turn again to life and smile,
Nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do
That which will comfort other souls than
thine;
Complete these dear unfinished tasks of mine,
And I, perchance, may therein comfort you.

Spaceman’s Luck to all... Ed Pippin