Remembering Weston Ochse: A Distinguished Career in Horror and Military Science Fiction
It is with heavy hearts that we remember the life and legacy of Best-selling author Weston Ochse, who passed away on November 18, 2023, in Tucson, AZ. At the age of 58, Ochse left behind a profound impact on the world of literature, particularly in the genres of horror and military science fiction.
Ochse’s talent and dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. The American Library Association hailed him as “one of the major horror authors of the 21st Century,” and he was the recipient of the prestigious Bram Stoker Award. His work was also nominated for the Pushcart Prize and won four New Mexico-Arizona Book Awards.
With over forty books to his name, Ochse’s storytelling prowess captivated readers around the globe. His military supernatural series, SEAL Team 666, even caught the attention of Hollywood and was optioned to be a movie starring the renowned Dwayne Johnson. His bibliography is a testament to his creativity and range as a writer. His debut novel, “Scarecrow Gods,” won the Bram Stoker Award and set the stage for a remarkable career.
While Ochse’s longer works garnered much acclaim, his shorter fiction also left an indelible mark. His stories appeared in esteemed publications such as DC Comics, IDW Comics, Soldier of Fortune Magazine, and Weird Tales. Additionally, he contributed to popular franchises like the X-Files, Predator, Aliens, AVP, Hellboy, Clive Barker’s Midian, and Joe Ledger. Notably, he was one of the founding authors of the NETFLIX TV series V-Wars.
Beyond his literary accomplishments, Ochse was a man of action. He spent more than half his life fighting for justice, happiness, and the well-being of others in over fifty countries. His experiences, including his time in Afghanistan, undoubtedly shaped his writing and added depth to his storytelling.
Throughout his life, Ochse consistently advocated for unity and understanding. He believed in the power of words, thoughts, and deeds to bring people together. His desire for harmony resonated in his work and his interactions with others.
Ochse’s dedication to his craft extended beyond his own writing. He shared his knowledge and passion for storytelling by teaching writing at Cochise Community College and Southern New Hampshire University. He also ran the Guerrilla Fiction Writing Workshop online, nurturing aspiring writers and helping them hone their skills.
It is worth noting that Ochse’s personal life was intertwined with his literary pursuits. He was married to author Yvonne Navarro, who survives him. Their partnership was a testament to their shared love for storytelling and the written word.
Weston Ochse’s passing is a tremendous loss for the literary community. His impact as a best-selling author, and his contributions to the genres of horror and military science fiction, will be remembered for years to come. His dedication to his family, his love for writing, and his unwavering pursuit of harmony serve as an inspiration to us all.
As we reflect on his life, let us celebrate the legacy of Weston Ochse and the profound impact he had on the world of literature. His stories will continue to entertain and inspire readers, ensuring that his memory lives on.
Note from the Editor:
I am saddened to hear of the passing of author Weston Ochse. He was one of my professors when I was an undergraduate. Our time together was short. But he taught me much about the publishing industry. He inspired me both as a writer and a student.
Sources:
Legacy.com. Weston Ochse Obituary. 4 Dec. 2023, https://www.pledge.to/widgets/search/93d96b3e1088927bcd5df9cb2b3d7613/53743750.locusmag. “Weston Ochse (1965–2023).” Locus Online, 22 Nov. 2023, https://locusmag.com/2023/11/weston-ochse-1965-2023/.Ochse, Weston. “About.” Main, https://www.westonochse.com/about-5.
Jimmy Blakemore
Jimmy Blakemore is an author of horror, suspense, and psychological fiction. His influences include Stephen King, Shirley Jackson, and Richard Matheson, with his inaugural encounter with horror as a writer when he read “1408” by Stephen King. He holds a Bachelor of Art in Creative Writing and English from Southern New Hampshire University, and he is currently a candidate in their Master of Fine Art in Creative Writing program. He is a proud member of Sigma Tau Delta, International English Honors Society, and the Horror Writers Association.
Originally published at https://ghoulishgazette.substack.com.
