Death of Karen Wynn Fonstad

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Karen Wynn Fonstad, the author of (among other works) The Atlas of Tolkien's Middle-Earth, passed away on March 11, 2005.

For more information, check out these links:

Planet Tolkien's announcement (http://www.planet-tolkien.com/news/article_132.html)
The One Ring's announcement (http://www.theonering.net/perl/newsview/8/1110669403)

Her work in charting and drawing maps of Middle-earth has been an important resource to Tolkien fans worldwide, especially helpful to those who write fan fiction and RPGs. She was also a member of the Éowyn Challenge site's "Walk to Rivendell", where her maps provided the mileage information for many walkers.

We owe her a great debt of thanks; may she rest in peace.

[Bêthberry]

That is very sad news, Esty. Fonstad's Atlas of Middle-earth shows just how incredibly precise and meticulous Tolkien was in his description and planning and of course speaks volumes about how he inspires others.

Her work will ensure that she is remembered as one of the finest of Tolkien's readers.

[HerenIstarion]

I'm sorry to hear about it.

Her work will ensure that she is remembered as one of the finest of Tolkien's readers

Yes

[piosenniel]

Good-bye, my sweet mapmaker!

~*~ Pio http://forum.barrowdowns.com/ubb/icons/icon13.gif

*raising a pint to you at the Windrose

[Carrûn]

Definately one of my favorite references. I'm sorry to see her go.

[Nimrodel_9]

May she rest in piece.

[King of the North]

The Atlas of Tolkien's Middle Earth is one of my favorite sources when I need to bulk up on my LotR knowledge. RIP Karen Wynn Fonstad.

[Child of the 7th Age]

This is a long overdue post....I look at the obituary and can only say that she was far too young.

There is one story I read I wanted to share. Karen apparently started the "Walk to Rivendell" but ill health caused her to withdraw. She did make it to Rivendell but her goal was to go beyond and "settle" in Lothlorien. Other posters participating in the run, hearing of her plight, donated their miles to her and she was profoundly grateful.

As someone who derives great satisfaction from writing RPGs and fanfiction, not a week goes by that I don't delve into her atlas for one little fact or another. I am not good with maps or visualizing distances. If I am able to have any picture in my head of where places are in relation to each other, it is only because of her excellent work. She will be missed.

[Snowdog]

I missed this totally! Yes, way too young!
I find the Atlas an indespensible part of my Tolkien library.