Hunter S. Thompson's ashes set for launch
Final preparations underway for 'gonzo' journalist's firework farewell

DENVER - Firework shells carrying the sealed ashes of “gonzo” journalist Hunter S. Thompson arrived in an armored truck at his mountain home as final preparations were being made for his star-studded farewell.

The shells were scheduled to be launched Saturday night from a 150-foot-tall monument erected behind Thompson’s house in Woody Creek, just outside Aspen. The event will be private, open to about 250 invited guests including Thompson’s longtime illustrator, Ralph Steadman, and actors Sean Penn and Johnny Depp.

“We haven’t noticed a lot of curiosity seekers or pilgrims, but the buzz and the excitement is increasing every hour,” family spokesman Matt Moseley said Friday. “People are coming into town, people invited to the event, and I’ve been getting calls from fans who’ll say things like ’I’m coming in from Wisconsin with a case of Chivas.”’

The scotch whiskey was a favorite of Thompson’s.

The counterculture writer fatally shot himself six months ago in his home at the age of 67. Friends and family have said Thompson was rundown by pain and physical problems including hip replacement surgery and a broken leg.

Pioneering 'gonzo' journalism
Thompson is credited with helping pioneer New Journalism — or, as he dubbed his version, “gonzo” journalism — in which the writer made himself an essential component of the story. His most famous work is “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” a wild, sprawling satire featuring “Dr. Thompson,” a snarling, drug- and alcohol-crazed observer and participant.

His widow, Anita Thompson, 32, has said she plans to publish at least three new books of her late husband’s unpublished letters and stories and is looking for a permanent archive for his works.

Anita Thompson has said she doesn’t want Saturday’s farewell to be a solemn event. She said the memorial will include some reminiscence, readings from Thompson’s work and performances by both Lyle Lovett and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

She said Depp, who grew close to Thompson after portraying him in the 1998 film version of “Fear and Loathing,” funded much of the celebration.

“We had talked a couple of times about his last wishes to be shot out of a cannon of his own design,” Depp told The Associated Press last month. “All I’m doing is trying to make sure his last wish comes true. I just want to send my pal out the way he wants to go out.”
© 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Go Hunter!

i love it, it's nice to know that his wishes are being met by his family and friends.

that's why johnny depp is the coolest fucking person alive!!

godspeed to the good doctor.

I completely agree with that statement! It's just so true.
I Johnny Depp!

fuckin a.



if there's a heeeavan he'll be rockin it.

"we're your friends, we're not like the others."--Dr. Gonzo.

Nothing but respect, respect and genuine admiration for Depp and the late Mr. Thompson.

damn straight!!

can't wait to see the movie version of the rum diary!

Hells yeah, Del Torro and Depp, together again.

Fucking awesome, I can't wait either.

I was really happy when they finally decided to do this. It's a great tribute to Hunter not only that his wishes be met, but that he go out with a bang... In more ways than one.