Donald W. “Bucky” Malson, 70, passed away on 09 May 2007 at his home in Washington Court House, Ohio, U.S.A. His death was sudden and unexpected.

Mr. Malson has been providing distinguished service and innovative ideas to the MLAIC while serving as Secretary General since 2002. Prior to his election to that position he served as the Delegate from the United States for 27 years and was that nation’s MLAIC founding member. During his years of leadership and competition within the Association, Bucky was a top medal winner in numerous firearm categories.

During an interesting and valiant career Mr. Malson served in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a decorated colonel, was a Licensed Professional Hunter in South Africa with numerous trophy awards in the Safari Club International Record Book, author of Hunting Southern Africa with Muzzle Loading Rifles, and a licensed general building contractor.

Among his many international awards were the Knightly Order of Chivalry of the Order of St. George and a Fellow of the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

In addition to the MLAIC and the United States International Muzzle Loading Committee, his numerous association affiliations include Life Membership in the U.S. National Rifle Association, member of the NRA Black Powder Committee, Life Member of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association, a 53-year member of the North-South Skirmish Association (serving for many years on its board of directors), the U.S. Marine Corps League, the Company of Military Historians, a Life Member of the Ohio Gun Collectors Association, and the Ohio Archeological Society.

Mr. Malson is survived by his wife, Nancy, three children and six grandchildren.

Mr. Malson’s leadership, innovative ideas and total dedication to the guiding principles of the MLAIC will serve as a beacon for all others for many years to come.