This is sad news indeed. In addition to being one of the greatest tournament players of all time, John was a real pleasure to be around. When I first arrived on the tournament scene in Vegas, it didn't take long to realize who was at the top of the hill. John dominated tournaments in Vegas for years, making final after final. He was always cordial and had a kind word, whether he was winning or losing.
I remember fondly one of the first tournaments I saw John in. He played the Stardust event, and for the duration of the event he wore a yellow "Out of Order" sticker across his forehead. The irony was lost on no-one as he won table after table, including the final.
The last final I played with John was in St Kitts a few years back, and true to his usual form, he gave me a thrashing on his way to a first place finish.
John Ressman, Rest in Peace. You'll be missed by all who knew you.