Troll Lord Games is reporting that Gary Gygax, one of the creators of D&D and the main author of the First Edition of Advanced D&D (not to mention many of its most popular early adventures) has passed away.

From the Troll Lord Games forum:

It is almost too much to get my mind about. But I’ve just had news that our dear Dungeon Master has passed away. Ernie called this morning, he thought we should let the fans know. He’s just sent an email out.

Gary was in his home when he gathered himself up to cross the great divide.

He was a very dear friend of mine. And I will miss him so.

God Speed My Friend.

Steve

There is also a lot of discussion on Dragonsfoot.

I knew Gary mainly through his writings (although I did meet him once at a convention long ago), but he was one of the main creators of a hobby that I have enjoyed for most of my adult life and I will miss him.