Joel Rosenberg, who died on June 2, 2011, was the author of over twenty science fiction, fantasy, and mystery novels, including the popular Guardians of the Flame fantasy series. Born in Canada on May 1, 1954, he grew up in North Dakota and Connecticut, and spent most of his adult life in Minneapolis. He was also a poker player, a pro-gun activist (who taught a widely-respected course in firearms), a musician, and a friend.
There will be more later from those who know more details, but I want to mention a few things. One is that he put himself out considerably to pull me out of a bad living situation. Another is that I know that for several years he had to win at least $50 a month at poker to pay his rent, and he did. Another is that in the last couple of months, since I returned to Minneapolis, we made music together several times and it was a joy. Another is that when I travel to conventions, I meet fans of his Guardians of the Flame series and it always pleases me. Another is that I really, really like his book D’Shai and the sequels.
He is survived by his wife, Felicia Herman, and his daughters Judy and Rachel.
I wish I could do better at this. I liked him, I respected him, and I’m going to miss him.
Other coverage: Locus. io9. David Dyer-Bennet.
It’s a shame, will miss him. Was a big fan of the Guardian of the Flame series, especially the early books.
I corresponded with Joel a couple of years ago, when I found out that he was a gun rights supporter AND the author of D’Shai, a book I liked a lot. He also strongly resembled a good friend of mine who is also a gun rights supporter, enough that I joked with him that he was my friend’s “evil twin”. He got a laugh out of it. I’ll miss his books and his support for our rights.
Quite unfortunate news. Another reason for 2011 to get over. I met Joel at a few of Minicons. He was bright, funny and polite.
One of my favorite authors when I was growing up, his stories always made me laugh and think. What more can you ask of a great story teller.
I will miss his work.
I have been a Joel Rosenburg fan for about 25 years, since I was in college.
I remember corresponding with him on GEnie back in the day, and discussing the influence a Heinlein story (“We also Walk Dogs”) had on Ties with Blood and Silver. He said he never saw the connection himself but it was probably true…. a really kind way to treat a young fan.
Joel Rosenburg will be greatly missed by all of his fans, including me.
SAJ, what was your handle on GEnie?
Wow… I think it was SJENKINS14. Back then I usually just signed my posts “—Fourteen” because I was bitter about being given an ID I didn’t like.