At the age of 95, comic book legend Stan Lee died of pneumonia on Monday.

Lee, who served in the United States Army during World War 2, was a writer and editor-in-chief for Marvel comics and co-created characters with Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko such as Iron Man, the Hulk, Fantastic Four, X-Men, Black Panther, Daredevil and Spider-Man.

His most notable actions are his surprise cameo scenes in Marvel films, video games and unexpected one for DC Universe in “Teen Titans Go! To the Movies.” Each time a new Marvel film is released, fans always keep an eye out for the master of cameos.

My career idol, I always hoped to meet ‘Stan the Man Lee’ to discuss his successful career and ask about how I might construct my own. He was able to create characters that everyone saw themselves in . Through each film, Lee showcased how it was more than okay to be different from others, often preaching the importance of individuality. Marvel actors such as Robert Downey Jr., Tom Holland and Ryan Reynolds have all made public statements in response to Lee’s sudden passing.

On an even more personal level, science teachers James Morrison and Stephen Schaffter met with Lee in regards to Daniel Pearl Magnet High School’s first ever Pearl-Con back in 2016. Lee filmed an introduction video to the school event and signed comic books to be sold in the silent auction.

Last year, Lee’s wife Joan Lee died and this year co-creator of Spider-Man, Steve Ditko passed away. Their daughter, Joan Celia Lee is 68 years old and their second daughter, Jan Lee died three days after birth.

Whenever Lee made a public statement, he would always use his famous exit word “Excelsior!” From fans everywhere, we say “Excelsior!”