Private tribute for Thompson

Plans for a public ceremony celebrating the life of Hunter S. Thompson have been canceled in favor of a private memorial service.

The Aug. 20 ceremony, which will include the scattering of the author’s ashes on his Aspen-area ranch, will coincide with the six-month anniversary of Thompson’s death, said Doug Brinkley, one of the planners of the memorial. He said a public symposium will be organized within the next 18 months that will include experts and a scholarly look at Thompson’s works, life and legacy.

Thompson shot himself in the head on Feb. 20.