Rick Loomis has died from cancer. He was a central figure in the gaming industry from its early days, with the formation of his company Flying Buffalo and the publishing of Tunnels and Trolls, one of D&D’d earliest competitors.
He wrote the first solitaire adventure, Buffalo Castle, for T&T in 1975, setting the stage for the solo adventures for The Fantasy Trip, and our own modules from Dark City Games many years later.
I met him briefly at Gen Con (in 2006 if remember correctly). He stopped by the booth and spoke briefly with George and I. He smiled at our games and pointed out that he had written Buffalo Castle, and seemed pleased that I was aware of that. He had some gracious words for us, which I deeply appreciated.
He was a gentleman of character, and will be missed by many. Condolences to all who loved him.