I grew up reading Marvel graphic novels, and still have a pile of X-Men and Avengers comics in my apartment.

The characters in the X-Men were outsiders, but they were also strong, independent and powerful role models for a dorky queer kid growing up without a lot of cash, and with a lot of quirks that weren’t that well received by the suburban elite at my school.

So it’s with great sadness that I join in with the millions of superhero and movie fans to mourn the passing of the legendary Stan Lee, the mind behind great characters like Spiderman, Storm, Rogue and Iron Man.

Here’s CNet with Marvel’s tribute to the legend:

Tom Brevoort describes Lee’s personality as “simultaneously self-effacing and self-aggrandising”. He notes that “Stan’s best creation was always Stan”.

Marvel’s Sana Amanat, vice president of content and character development, gives one of the most poignant descriptions of Lee’s contributions: “He’s the heart of the Marvel universe.”

The video is a fitting salute to a legend.

As a last tribute, please enjoy this compilation of every cameo Stan Lee had done in a movie adaptation of his work. Look out for the one in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’s five post-credits scenes.

In the scene, Lee is talking to the “Watchers”, entities that are located across the universe and exist to observe the progress of civilisation.

Not unlike Lee, who both helped create and presided over the Marvel universe. It’s a great way to honour what he left behind.

A legacy that won’t soon be forgotten.

[source:cnet]