Passing of a Kiteflier – Margo Brown

We were saddened to hear of Margo’s passing in an email we received this week. She will be missed by the many friends she made through kiting and remembered for her dedication to the sport – giving back to the kiting community in a variety of leadership roles with professionalism, commitment, and tireless energy. Our deepest sympathy goes out to her husband Bevan, her family, and friends. – Ali Fujino, Drachen Foundation

Margo and I enjoyed a love for kites and kite flying that never waned. Some of our best and longest lasting friendships are with our fellow kite enthusiasts. Margo was especially active in the kiting organizations and passionate about promoting the sport. She was an early member of the Maryland Kite Society, and was on the first Executive Board of the American Kitefliers Association (AKA). We were life members of the AKA. Margo was a founding member of the Mama Sans Rokkaku Kite Fighting Team, participating in epic battles with the Rainbow Warriors – where the winner was determined by the first one to the microphone. She was the first woman President of the AKA, and remained an active AKA supporter. Margo was also a volunteer for the Aeronautics Department of the National Air & Space Museum, where she worked with Dr. Paul Garber on the NASM kite collection, and repaired several items in the collection. Margo and I have been active supporters of the Smithsonian Kite Festival ever since the first one was held at Fort Washington, and continued to participate in the annual event every year thereafter.

Margo was also a strong and passionate advocate for indoor kite flying. About 10 years ago, after a determined effort, she was able to convince the NASM Curators to allow indoor kite flying and became coordinator for the kite display and flying activities on NASM’s Kite Day – which has been greatly successful due to the performances by our talented indoor kite fliers.

Our lives together have been a wonderful adventure – with many of my best memories from being with you, our friends. If anyone has memories or pictures they would like to share, please send them to me at my email address below.

Steady Winds,
Bevan Brown
bevan@erols.com

All photos courtesy of the Brown Family