Eulogy: BOB KANE

BOB KANE and I had a friendly competition going for decades. Whenever he’d talk about the longevity of Batman, I’d ask what he’s done lately. Whenever I’d mention a Marvel character, he’d remind me that Batman had been the biggest screen superhero. He was the best kind of friend–always provocative, always fun. He certainly didn’t always live by the usual rules. Meeting the ever tardy Kanes for dinner was an adventure. If we were to meet at 8, my wife and I would arrive at 8:30. He’d beat us by arriving at 9. Next time we’d come an hour late. He and Elizabeth would show up at 10. Finally we just waited at home until the maitre d’ phoned to say Bob had arrived.

He loved his fans. Nothing made him happier than signing autographs. He also loved to do sketches for people. We’d never think of having a party without him, because he wouldn’t let any of our guests leave without an original, quickly rendered Batman drawing. He made us the most popular hosts in town.

Bob’s legacy will live on for generations, for he will always be part of his brilliant creation, Batman, a superhero of skill and courage who fearlessly battles evil in Gotham City. But in the real world, the greatest heroes are those who live good, decent, productive lives. My friend Bob was as heroic as any.

–Stan Lee, creator of Spider-Man