Congo philately is again in mourning.

Léo Tavano was passed away. He was always in a good mood, telling a joke or a philatelic anecdote. Léo was generous, giving sound advice and sharing his knowledge with everyone.
Léo was meticulous, nearly fussy; his work was always perfect. He was a specialist in classic Belgian and Italian stamps and later with the collaboration of Charles Hénuzet he became
interested in Congo philately. Together they produced many publications.

He was the son of a philately merchant and took over the family business with his brother Mario. He was a Member of the Royal Academy of Philately - Royal Society of London and
during many years Chairman and secretary ( 2002-2009) then consultant ( following his illness ) of the expertise committee of the Belgian Congo Study Circle and was also awarded
many philatelic distinctions.

We are losing not only a well-informed philatelist who will leave an important and sustainable mark but also a friend of whom we shall retain a warm memory.

Th.Frennet