Canon Fodder

Friends Of 'Gonzo' Journalist Planning Wild Sendoff

12:45 pm CST February 23, 2005

ASPEN, Colo. -- Friends of "gonzo" journalist Hunter Thompson say he used to joke about having his ashes blasted from a cannon after he died.

He may just get his wish.

Actor Johnny Depp and others close to the late writer are on the lookout for a cannon. They're also studying proper firing techniques for such a final salute to the author, who often referred to himself as cannon fodder.

As Thompson's attorney says, "if it can be done, we will do it."

The 67-year-old gun lover shot and killed himself Sunday in the kitchen of his Colorado home. Friends say Thompson had been in considerable pain during the past year after breaking a leg and undergoing hip surgery.

He was cremated Tuesday, and a family spokesman says there are tentative plans for a private commemoration of his life on March 5. A larger event to celebrate Thompson's literary career may be staged in April.

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