Produced in association with the SomaCow Media Network (see When I conducted this interview with Jim Gasser of Barbarian Battles at MegaCon earlier this month, I had honestly hoped to send it to him once it was done to get this thoughts on the work, because it truly a great interview in my opinion and he was great fun to chat with. I sincerely hope he would have enjoyed seeing it, had he had the opportunity.
I learned earlier today that Mr. Gasser was killed in a car accident in New Mexico yesterday, March 30th, while on his way to the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in California. Those who knew him can perhaps take a little comfort in the fact that he was doing what he so clearly loved and was passionate about. For my part, I only spoke to the man for a few brief minutes, but his story and the fact that he was living his dream was truly inspiring, as was the energy and enthusiasm that simply radiated from him as he spoke about his labor of love, taking Barbarian Battles on the road to Faires and conventions, teaching the fundamentals of swordplay. For my part, I’m glad to have met him–he’s a shining example of how a life spent doing something you’re passionate about shouldn’t just be the stuff of dreams. It can be a reality.
Rest in peace, Jim Gasser. I’m honored to have met you, however briefly.
Stumble It!
Apr 14, 2010 at 22:27:21
Hey, do you happen to have any uncut footage from that interview? My wife was Jim’s brother. (and also happened to model as Voodoo for Wildstorm a while back. lol)
Apr 14, 2010 at 22:48:47
Actually, Jim’s brother contacted me shortly after the accident, asking the same question. We burned what we had onto a DVD and mailed it to him. I might still have the mini-DV tape from the camera that we were using that day, but I don’t know for sure and I don’t know how much more footage there was aside from what was used, as I didn’t do the editing job. I can certainly look for you and let you know! Voodoo, as in the WildC.A.T.S. character? That’s … well, that’s wild! lol