Science fiction (and literature in general) lost one its brightest writers yesterday when Iain M. Banks passed away from gallbladder cancer. He revealed his terminal diagnosis several months ago, but still managed to finish his final novel, The Quarry, which, not-too-surprisingly, is about a man dying from cancer.
Among speculative fiction fans, Banks is known for his Culture novels. He’s been nominated multiple times for the Hugo and Locus Awards—but surprisingly has never won—and The Times named him one of Britain’s greatest novelist since 1945. His creativity, wit, and writing will all be missed.
D. Thomas Minton 
Dude, he’s ‘Iain’ (Scotts spelling I think), and though I think he’d have wanted to win a ‘locust’ award, I don’t think we have SF awards named for insects?
Still, I’m amazed he never won a Hugo.
Damn that spell check! That’s what I get for not looking close enough. I’d fired the copyeditor, but unfortunately I can afford anyone better 😉 Corrections made!