Comics Say Good Bye to John D’Agostino

PHILADELPHIA.- Archie, Jughead, Incredible Hulk, G.I.Joe, and many other comic characters were created by legendary John D’Agostino, who passed away on Sunday due to bone cancer at the age of 81.

The Italian comic artist was born in 1929, when he immigrated to the United States, he got his first job as head colorist at New York city’s Timely Comics (Marvel’s forerunner). During his career, “Jon” worked with Stan Lee and co-created iconic super-heroes, such as Spider-Man and Fantastic Four. He also supervised Stan Goldberg, known for the Archie stories and later joined him as a managing editor in Archie Comics, and he spent his last years drawing several characters which is why he became one of the most important artists.

“Jon was concerned about doing the best job possible. He would always be available to help young artists improve their artwork and draw the Archie cast of characters,” Archie co-president and editor-in-chief Victor Gorelick said. “He was very dedicated to his work and Archie Comics. I had the privilege of working with Jon for over 40 years and considered him a good friend. I will truly miss him.”

D’Agostino died in Ansonia, Conneticut and his funeral will be held on Thursday.