Legendary comic book publisher Michael Z. Hobson -- who, during his career, served as Executive Vice President of Marvel Comics -- has passed away. He was 83 years old.

Hobson's passing was announced in a post to the official Marvel Entertainment Twitter page. "The Marvel family mourns the passing of Mike Hobson, a visionary and pillar of what Marvel Comics is today. Mike's passion and love of storytelling opened the doors for fans around the world to join the Marvel Universe, and his legacy will live on for generations to come," the message reads. "Mike brought Stan Lee's tapestry of heroes to millions. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family and loved ones," a follow-up tweet adds. Per an obituary published in the New York Times today, Nov. 22 (via Legacy.com), Hobson passed away in New York City earlier this month on Nov. 12.

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Born on Dec. 8, 1936, Hobson was adopted as a baby by late novelist Laura Z. Hobson, author of Gentleman's Agreement and Consenting Adult, who raised him as a single mother alongside his brother, Christopher Z. Hobson. Michael Z. Hobson went on to have a long career in publishing, including at Scholastic, where he "helped foster equal status for women employees." He also served as Executive Vice President for Marvel Comics, later becoming Marvel's London representative. After returning to the United States, Hobson became president of Parachute Publishing, and even served as a senior adviser for Cracked. Michael was married to Ann Gould Hobson, with the couple having two children.

"Mike, who sometimes said his typical business role was as 'the one sane person in the room,' for this reason lived in caustic amazement at American racism, injustice and politics," the New York Times piece reads. "After a three month decline from heart failure, Mike died peacefully, at home, tended by those he loved and who loved him."

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Source: Twitter\@Marvel | Legacy