Flavis Eugene Borron

Flavis "Brick" Borron: A Life of Dedication, Adventure, and Storytelling

Flavis "Brick" Borron passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and family love. Born on June 9, 1936, in Bucklin, Missouri, Brick entered the world during the challenging final years of the Great Depression. Growing up in a farming community, he learned early the values of hard work, resourcefulness, and perseverance that would define his remarkable life.

In 1955, Brick married the love of his life, Doris Clawson, in nearby Brookfield, Missouri. Their first year of marriage was spent in Missouri, but the couple soon shared a bold vision for their future. In 1957, they packed their dreams and limited belongings and set out for San Diego, California, seeking new opportunities and a chance to build a life beyond the familiar farming landscape of their youth.

Brick's mechanical aptitude and self-sufficiency quickly found a home in the military aviation industry. His most celebrated achievement came during a top-secret project in Lancaster, California, where he was instrumental in constructing the SR-71, the fastest production aircraft ever built. The SR-71 became a symbol of technological innovation and military prowess, and Brick took immense pride in being part of its groundbreaking development.

Following the SR-71 project, he joined North Island Naval Air Station as a planner and estimator for F-4 Phantom jets. During the Vietnam War, when many fighter jets returned bearing the scars of combat, Brick played a crucial role in ensuring pilot safety. He would often be flown out to aircraft carriers to assess damage and recommend repairs, a responsibility he carried with profound respect for the men and women serving their country.

Family was the cornerstone of Brick's life. He and Doris raised three children with love, commitment, and a sense of adventure. An avid outdoorsman, he instilled in his children a deep appreciation for nature through annual summer vacations. These trips alternated between camping and trout fishing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and visiting relatives in Missouri, creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds.

But Brick was perhaps most beloved for his storytelling. During visits to Missouri, surrounded by aunts, uncles, and lifelong friends, he would come alive, weaving tales that were equal parts history, humor, and wisdom. His stories were more than mere entertainment; they were living history, connecting generations through laughter and shared experiences. The tale of his pet raccoon "Coonie" and the chaos it caused on the family farm became a particular favorite, often told with a twinkle in his eye and a knowing smile.

These stories were Brick's true legacy, a testament to a life fully lived, rich with experiences, challenges overcome, and moments of pure joy. They captured the spirit of a time rapidly fading from memory, preserving the essence of mid-20th century American life through his unique lens.

Flavis "Brick" Borron was more than just a man, he was a storyteller, a craftsman, a loving husband and father, and a quiet hero who contributed to his country's technological advancement. His life was a beautiful narrative of transformation, from a young farm boy to a respected aerospace professional, always maintaining his fundamental humanity and sense of wonder.

He leaves behind sons Steven Borron, Clifford Borron, daughter Brenda Borron Graham, granddaughter Amanda Graham Hyden, grandson Scott Borron and 2 great grandsons who will deeply miss him, but his stories, his love, and his spirit will continue to inspire and bring joy to those who knew him.