Tor Books’ Art Director Irene Gallo reports that artist John Berkey died 29 April 2008. Born in 1932, the Minnesota-based artist’s work is easily recognizable, and appeared almost everywhere. His work was collected in Painted Space (1991) and The Art of John Berkey (2003, pictured here).
In 1999, he won the Spectrum Grand Master award. In 2004, he was named to the 104-year-old Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame. On 22 March 2007, Excelsior, Minnesota, declared “John Berkey Day.”
Some of his work known to the wider world included the “Old Elvis” stamp and some of the early Star Wars artwork, but his book and magazine covers will be long remembered.
There are several on-line remembrances and galleries of his work, including:
Irene Gallo
Bob Eggleton
ArtOrg
Fortune City
Wicked Moonsurfinvest
Ask Art
Spectrum
We will be updating this article as we get more information.
Edited 2 May:
Jane Frank of Worlds of Wonder writes: I have spoken now to Mrs. John (Demi) Berkey and she has told me that the memorial service for John will be held 16 May at 1PM at The Congregational Church of Excellsior, 471 Third Street, Excelsior, MN 55331; 952-474-5919. After the service there will be gathering for well-wishers at 3:30PM at the Bayview Event Center, on Lake Minnetonka, 687 Excelsior Blvd, Excelsior, MN 55331; 952-470-VIEW (8439). She would also welcome condolences from anyone who wishes to send them: Mrs. John Berkey, 5940 Christmas Lake Rd, Excelsior, MN 55331.
Additionally, the Society of Illustrators has established a scholarship in Berkey’s name. Donations should be sent to: The Society of Illustrators Scholarship Fund, 128 East 63rd St, New York, NY 10065. Attention: Anelle Miller.