I am sure that there are a large proportion of GNC readers who have played a session or two of D&D. Gary Gygax was a legend in the roleplaying world, played a large part in the creation and growth of Dungeons and Dragons and had a huge influence on the greater role-play scene through GenCon, the biggest role-playing convention out there. Still active in the community in his late 60's, Gary unfortunately died last week due to heart problems.

Wired has posted an extensive article it had been putting together before his death which goves some great insight into a man that really enjoyed what he did that is well worth a read.

The Internet cartoonists have also been profuse in their tributes, but I think XKCD gets the win for the best one.