Margo Nagel

Margo H. Nagel, 86, departed this earth on November 2, 2008 at her home after a protracted illness.

Born in Berlin, Germany, she survived the destruction of Berlin as a young adult and made her way to the United States in 1953. From her experiences during the war, she said: ìOld beautiful buildings can be destroyed in seconds and survival is belief in the future. And what is the future? Our Children.î

Educated as an accountant, she worked for a number of years at Beloit College in Wisconsin but there began an involvement with childrenís affairs that continued until her death. She continued her work with childrenís causes when she moved to Hendersonville and added to her volunteer work as a member of the Hendersonville Board of Adjustment for the last ten years.

She was survived by her husband, Hans, with whom she lived and traveled throughout the world. They arrived in the United States with less than a dollar and successfully lived the American Dream, obtaining citizenship as quickly as possible. Having lived or visited most of the countries of the world, they firmly believed that the United States is the best country in which to live.

Combining the sensitivity of a survivor with a keen sense of duty and correctness, she gained the affection and respect of all who knew her. Often in her role as protector and critic, she questioned the rightness of a situation, but her charming accent and winning smile added strength to her position. She was unwilling to say a negative thing about another person.

She and her husband were significant benefactors to a number of social service and arts groups, and she leaves a legacy of charity and volunteer service throughout the community.