(From Carol Lynn)
Margaret Ann Basta
Born October 9, 1951
Died September 4, 2022
Born in Detroit, daughter of Stanley J. and Laura J. Basta. Identical twin sister of Laura Patrice Sandler (Ronald). Beloved aunt of Aron and David. Graduate of Wayne State University, where she was a mainstay of the local SF club, the Wayne Third Foundation. Margaret also did graduate work in Music Therapy at Michigan State University. She was the organist at St. Luke’s Church for many years. So many who loved Star Trek from its very earliest days called her their friend
Margaret was a driving force in the development of Star Trek fandom as a founder of the Star Trek Association for Revival (S.T.A.R), and an editor and publisher of “Babel,” one of the early Star Trek fanzines. For many years she could be found at the “Orphan ‘Zine” tables at MediaWest*Con passing on her love of fanfiction. She was a leader in the 1970s campaign to return Star Trek to television. Star Trek fans owe Margaret a huge debt of thanks for what we now enjoy.
In addition to her abiding passion for Star Trek, she was an avid admirer of antiques including silver, jewelry and ceramics. She turned her passion into a career while working with DuMouchelle’s Art Gallery for almost twenty years. She took a break from her career to care for her parents in their last years. Later, she partnered with her good friend Jan Feldmann and opened Hidden Gems Estates Sales.
She was a voracious reader, part-time author, and traveler. Her network of friends stretched around the world and all who knew her mourn her passing.
More sad news on Margaret — she was completely destitute and in debt when she died. Laura is currently hospitalized and her family is also unable to fully fund the burial. There is not enough money to even cremate Margaret. If she is not to be merely turned over to the state for a pauper’s burial, some money has to be raised. If you can see it in your heart to help, please donate to the Go Fund Me for Margaret’s burial. Any and every amount is welcome. Thank you. https://gofund.me/e898521a
MediaWest*Con 