William C. Dietz, the prolific and New York Times bestselling American science fiction author, passed away on March 15, 2026, at the age of 80. Known for his expansive military science fiction narratives and popular video game novelizations, Dietz leaves behind a significant body of work that captivated readers across the globe.

Born in 1945, Dietz grew up in the Seattle area, where his early experiences laid a foundation for his future storytelling. He honorably served his country in both the Navy and the Marine Corps as a corpsman, an experience that profoundly influenced the realistic military narratives found throughout his literary career.

Following his military service, Dietz pursued higher education, graduating from the University of Washington. His professional journey before becoming a full-time author was diverse, including roles as a surgical technician, college instructor, news writer, television producer, and director of public relations and marketing for an international telephone company. These varied experiences enriched his understanding of the world and human nature, which he skillfully wove into his fiction.

Dietz launched his distinguished writing career with his debut novel, "War World," later retitled "Galactic Bounty," published in 1986. This marked the beginning of a prolific output that saw him become a full-time novelist in 2002. He is particularly celebrated for his "Legion of the Damned" series, a military science fiction saga that commenced in 1993 and garnered a dedicated readership for its intricate world-building and action-packed plots.

Beyond his original series, Dietz was also a prominent author of tie-in novels, bringing beloved video game universes to life through his prose. His notable contributions include "Halo: The Flood" in 2003, an adaptation of the iconic "Halo: Combat Evolved" game, and three "Star Wars" novels. He also contributed to the gaming world directly, co-writing the script for Sony's "Resistance: Burning Skies" for the PS Vita.

Throughout his career, William C. Dietz authored more than sixty novels, many of which have been translated into multiple languages, solidifying his status as a New York Times bestselling author. He and his wife, Marjorie Dietz, resided near Gig Harbor, Washington, where they enjoyed traveling, kayaking, and reading. His legacy endures through his vast literary contributions and the imaginative worlds he created for generations of science fiction enthusiasts.