In Memoriam: Charles Nikki Brown, 1937-2009

[thatcrazycajun]

Fannishly filched from several on my f-list: Charles N. "Chuck" Brown, founder, publisher and until now sole editor of Locus, the magazine that had its very own Hugo Awards category ("semiprozine") for many years of reporting on the world of literary science fiction and fan activities, has passed away at 72. His magazine's website carries his obituary here; apparently he died on the way home from last weekend's Readercon, peacefully in his sleep.

I never knew the man personally, but I have many times perused the reportage in his publication, and found myself entertained and enlightened. Locus has become an institution in fandom, and for its founding and nurturing through the decades, Mr. Brown richly deserves to be remembered. Some of my friends have had more direct dealings with him, both positive and less so, and I refer you to them for further background.

Chuck was among the fannish celebrities immortalized via pseudonym in Larry Niven et al.'s right-wing-dystopia novel Fallen Angels a few years back. Somehow, though, I think he'd consider the magazine he worked so hard to build his most appropriate memorial...and it's hard to argue. Requiescat in pace, sir, and thank you.

Comments

[zanda-myrande.livejournal.com]

Oh no. Seventy-two...that's no age.

He will be much missed.

[kitanzi.livejournal.com]

Just when you thought GAFilk was the only convention that killed its attendees afterward...

I'm sure you were trying to be funny, but please don't.

[thatcrazycajun.livejournal.com]

I am truly sorry; I meant no offense or aspersion and the offending text has been removed.

[thnidu.livejournal.com]

Amen. The memory of the righteous is a blessing.

[jonbaker.livejournal.com]

Boy. I just saw him at Readercon, on a panel. Although, someone commented that "the average age among readers of Locus has been going up a year every year recently..."