On Monday, November 12, 2018, Stanley Martin Lieber — mostly known by Stan Lee — passed away at the age of 95. Stan was known for co-creating several superheroes that are beloved by many till this day. Heroes such as the Hulk, Doctor Strange, the Fantastic Four, Daredevil, and his favorite, Spider-Man! He appeared in numerous adaptations of his characters, from live action to animated series, to video games — including this year’s Spider-Man video game for the PlayStation 4.

In early 1942, Stan entered the United States Army and served to repair telegraph poles. He would later move to the Training Film Division where he worked on manuals, training films, and often cartooning. His military clarification was known as “playwright” as he was one of the nine men given that title. Lee would then come home and co-create memorable superheroes with Jack Kirby.

Stan Lee was more than just an artist. There’s more to him than just a man with a pencil.

An Inspiration

Stan Lee managed to inspire a great number of people. Paving a way for so many people with dreams and passion for doing what they love. Stan was that man who inspired people to go out and do what they wanted. I, myself, was inspired by Stan Lee. There was a time in my life where I wanted to be a comic book artist/writer. Stan Lee opened the path for, not only me but for many people to have dreams and follow them.

A Raconteur

Stan Lee didn’t just bring hope to people’s dreams, he also brought many smiles to people’s faces. Stories from superheroes like Iron Man, Thor, and the X-Men. He gave everyone a reason to smile. Also, giving himself a smile with his favorite creation, Spider-Man.

“He’s the best-loved all over the world, and that makes me very happy“ -Stan Lee, 2012

Stan loved Spider-Man because of how relatable he was. He also loved him because he is much like an underdog compared to the other big-time heroes. Stan wrote a lot of Spidey stories and even appeared in the 1960s animated series.

A Real Life Superhero

Changing the lives of many, Stan Lee is seen as a real-life superhero. Changed many people’s lives, including my own. Opened a world of possibilities to so many. Reached out and helped people when feeling down. These stories, these heroes, they mean so much more than just characters. Stan Lee brought in so much to his creations, so much to get connected with. Creating positive energy with every flip of a page. It would be unreal to imagine what life would be like without Stan Lee.

Stan Lee was more than just a creator of famous superheroes. Stan Lee was a legend, in every way possible. He made way for storytellers like him, made way for people who had hopes and dreams. Stan Lee would always bring a smile to people’s faces when he appeared on the screen. For the next few Marvel films, it will be more than just smiles, it will be sheds of tears as well.

Rest in paradise, Stan Lee.