In Memory of
Pete Hedberg, K7WTG
Pete Hedberg, K7WTG became a Silent Key on Sunday, October 18, 2024.
Pete joined the Mike & Key in October 1970.
Pete was a lifetime member of the club and was a president of the club in 1972-73 and was awarded the Pop Brown in 1973.
In Memory of
Charles "Chuck" Benefiel, N7STR
Chuck Benefiel, N7STR became a Silent Key on Sunday, August 11, 2024.
Chuck joined the Mike & Key in September 1991.
Charles “Chuck” Buster Benefiel was born in Glendale California in 1943, the youngest of three children. He graduated from Glendale High School in 1960, attended community college and began his career as a salesman. In 1978 Chuck relocated to Pierce County, becoming a master salesman and designing office furniture for Dalkey Manufacturing in Tacoma. It was while working for himself that his self-reliance became more and more inseparable from who he was. His passions included sailing, fishing, camping, traveling, and ham radio, but it was in 1984 that Chuck began his lifelong journey with AA, Al-Anon, and CODA. He loved people and selflessly pursued a life active in service to others helping nurture those who struggled with alcoholism, codependency, Alzheimer’s, and assisting Veterans through the VA. Chuck led a life of giving to those who needed help, no matter what their background. He was always humble and introspective, and willing to lend a hand, a lesson, or wise perspective. He loved many, will truly be missed, and his legacy will always be visible in those who he helped. He is survived by his partner in life Denise Macdonald, his sons Charles and Robert Benefiel, along with his grandchildren August and Arlo. He is also survived by his brother Mickey, Mickey’s wife Nan Benefiel, and his nephews Michael and Corey Benefiel.
Chuck was a president of the club in 1997-98 and was awarded the Pop Brown in 1999.
In Memory of
Tim Schneebeck, K7QMI
Tim Schneebeck, K7QMI became a Silent Key on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
Tim joined the Mike & Key in April 1977. He was a member of many local Ham organizations.
Many of us Ham Radio Operators knew Tim K7QMI(SK) from the Torchlight Parade as COMMAND - Route Net Control. Tim was blind from birth and was a pleasure to watch in action. He had an amazing ability to keep track of details of multiple inputs and communicate with conciseness. A very pleasant tone and demeanor in his voice... calling out intersection after intersection to confirm assignments... all from memory.
This, from the 'PSRG Discussion Group' on Facebook. ference: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ww7psr/
Tim was a lifetime member of the club.
In Memory of
Diane Dinkelman, KB7DNE
Diane Dinkelman, KB7DNE became a Silent Key on Thursday, June 10, 2024.
Mike Dinkelman, the editor of the Relay wrote this article about his wife's death.
This is the most difficult document I have ever written. I have been writing it in my mind for most of the past month, remembering long-ago days. You will have to allow me some leeway. I do want to thank those that have expressed their condolences, sympathies, and hugs. And, if I seem out-of-sorts; well, I am doing my best.
On June 10th, the Club lost a long-standing Club member of 31 years and I lost the love of my life of 46 years. When we got married, I am sure I had told Diane that I was an Amateur Radio Operator. However, I was more concerned with chasing her than chasing DX or contesting. In fact, I think my license actually expired for about 6 months while courting her.
Diane had no interest in Ham Radio and I didn’t care. While I did drag out my HW-101 and try to setup a station in our first home, she was glad when it went away. Not much room in a rental single-wide trailer or extra money to spend on toys. Five years later though, we purchased a home in downtown Kent and I saw radios in my future. A new-to-me TS-820 from Amateur Radio Supply (Do we have to go there again?) and simple antennas got me on the air. She was happy I was home and she could see me in the living room corner playing Ham Radio. She even bought me my first tower. However, all this eventually led to my introduction to the Mike & Key ARC. No, Diane had no interest in the Club either.
Diane and I were always a “we” whether radios were involved or not. Diane had organizational abilities that I did not. She had creativity that I did not. Diane knew how to have fun, and my idea of fun was... suspect. In the early years of my membership, I took on the Activity Manager position. On the newsletter banner where it listed me as Activity Manager, it should have said Michael & Diane. WE organized the Banquets, the Christmas Parties, and the Picnics. She would give direction at the events and I was the dutiful husband. Then we had a Mariner game, bowling parties, and even a cruise on the ferry to dinner in Bremerton. When I became the Relay editor, and we mailed 200 newsletters every month, she was there to help get them printed, folded, stamped, and mailed. She taught me a lot about organization, creativity, and non-Ham fun. She provided the encouragement, for me, to try new things. Like licensing classes.
At Highline Community College, this Club would have Novice classes in the Fall followed by Tech/General classes in the Winter. I think it started out with Hal and I as the instructors. After a year, maybe two, she signed up. NOT to learn about Ham Radio but because she was tired of spending Thursday evenings home alone so this was a way to be with me on Thursday. Diane had no grasp of electronics and asked the most exasperating questions. She had to study Morse code. But, in the end, Diane earned a Novice license, KB7DNE, and eventually worked that into a Tech+ license. Diane had no use for that license but she was happy it (DNE) aligned with her name.
Diane did enjoy the Swap Meet. It appealed to her organizational abilities though Hams, in her opinion, were crazy. Me included. She started by helping the VE’s, then graduated to helping out at Registration. Registration frustrated her to no end. It was NOT well organized. When the Chair of Registration eventually stepped down, Diane stepped up. She knew the Chair had to be a member of the Club, so she joined, officially, in October 1992. She was already organizing. Diane ran Registration for 25 years. Most of the current structure of running Registration was born in Diane's mind. She loved it. Registration runs 6 months out of the year. It was her Fall/Winter activity. She has plaques on the wall attesting to her work and even earned the Pop Brown award, the Club's highest honor. (She made sure to dig that in.) Health issues eventually ended that in 2019. Even now, when folks come through Registration, they ask "How's Diane?".
I was always proud that someone who didn't really care about the radios but did care about me and, by association, the Club was so willing to dedicate herself to it all. She did more work to help this Club be a success than many. She was also the key to my successes in life.
I miss her. Terribly.
Diane was awarded the Pop Brown in 1993, Swap Meet Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019, and a lifetime member of the club.
In Memory of
Chuck Jones, N7BV
Chuck Jones, N7BV became a Silent Key on Thursday, April 18, 2024.
Chuck Jones N7BV joined the Mike & Key back in August 1996. Except then, he was KX4UH (yuck!), had just retired from the CIA, moved from Virginia, and started a sign-shop with his wife Karen. At the sign-shop he attracted the attention of Jack KB7ZS (in those days) and found the Mike & Key.
After retiring from the Navy, Chuck traveled the world for the CIA as a communications specialist and operated as 6W8FP 6W8A 9L1CA and CN8ES. He found contesting was the best way to operate as DX. While in Virginia, he also hooked to the big Potomac Valley ARC contest club.
While operating the sign-shop, Chuck was very active in the Mike & Key. Since he lived in a condo and had no home station, he became a regular at my contest multi-op's.
Using the resources of the sign-shop, he also created/donated many items as trophies, banners, and call sign plaques. My Mike & Key CW Forever banner comes off my shack wall only to go to Field Day.
Chuck and I would frequently travel to conventions together and share a room. (Actually, Karen was glad I could give her the occasional free weekend.) We usually did the Northwest DX Conventions and we also travelled to Visalia a couple times; once by driving down (never again!).
Chuck actually won the CQWW contest (the world's largest and most popular) one year while overseas with the CIA. His plaque never arrived. I did some research using some old CQWW archives and confirmed this wasn't one of his old war stories. I contacted the sponsors for the CQWW and paid to have another plaque made. I surprised him by presenting it to him at one of the DX convention banquets. I am sure it still hangs in his shack.
We rarely agreed when it came to politics (and he loved to talk politics) but were never disagreeable. I did have to put up with his Fox News addiction in the hotel rooms but would gladly do so again to have him back.
The past few years have been hard on Chuck's health. Unfortunately, it also coincided with Diane's health issues and the pandemic so visits became few and far between. We had planned for the convention in Spokane last August but he pulled out abruptly. The phone calls and emails quit too. Karen was also experiencing health issues and emails to her went unanswered.
Chuck passed on April 18th. Karen passed four days later. I will miss them both very much.
In Memory of
Calvin C. Doss, KC7GZL
Calvin C. Doss, KC7GZL became a Silent Key on Monday, September 25, 2023.
Calvin was a lifetime member of the club.
Calvin KC7GZL - Silent Key
Calvin Doss / KC7IYP
I am sad to report that my Dad KC7GZL has passed away as of September 25, 2023. He is a lifetime member of the Mike and Key. KC7GZL Calvin C. Doss age 92, enjoyed his time attending the meetings with his family, wife Vera Doss, Son Calvin D. Doss KC7iyp, and member Brenda Doss until his health prevented him from attending. Please let the club know of his passing.
Thanks. KC7IYP Calvin D. Doss (425) 466-9073
In Memory of
Kenn Kullberg, AC6DK
Kenn Kullberg, AC6DK became a Silent Key on Tuesday, August 15, 2023.
Ken joined the Mike & Key in January 2016 and was active in the Club’s VE Testing program.
Ken was also awarded the Ken Jackson (K7PZX) Award in 2016.
In Memory of
db Baker, WA3DB
Silent Key, db Baker, WA3DB
Lake Washington Ham Club
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend, dB Baker, WA3DB, who became a silent key this afternoon. dB Baker's unwavering dedication to bringing people together left a lasting impact on the lives of so many.
Although dB could often be heard on the air all across Puget Sound (legend tells us that his callsign alone could make his signal twice as strong) he was best known for being a good listener. dB had a remarkable ability to quietly inspire others to overcome challenges and embrace their full potential. Through his efforts, he created a vibrant community of individuals who shared a profound nderstanding of the value that comes from a sense of elonging, understanding, and support.
As we bid farewell to our dear friend, we take solace in knowing that his legacy can endure. The people he touched remain a testament to his selflessness and the connections he fostered. As we nurture the community that dB held dear, we honor his memory by cherishing the time we spend with one another.
Rest in peace, dear friend. Your indelible presence will be greatly missed.
In Memory of
David Smith, KB7PSN
David Smith KB7PSN became a Silent Key on Thursday, June 22, 2023.
Services were held Sunday (Jul 2) at the Greenwood Memorial Park Funeral Home in Renton.
Dave loved Mike and Key and was a very active lifetime member who has held most, if not all, club positions including President 2017-18; he was the current Web Master. In addition to Mike and Key, Dave loved his family and frequently visited relatives in Oregon. Active to the very end he just returned from a trip to Seaside Oregon to attend the SeaPac Ham Radio Convention, something he tried to do every year.
All of us who knew Dave will agree with his older brother Leonard who wrote, “we will miss his deep caring for people and sense of humor.” Dave was famous for his ultra dry quick wit. A really nice guy that will be missed by all who got to know him.
David was also awarded the Pop Brown in 2020 and Swap Meet MVP in 2016.
In Memory of
Charles "Chip" Margelli, K7JA
Farewell Chip, K7JA (SK)
A recent picture of Chip and Janet provided by WB2JKJ. There are innumerable wonderful tributes on the web and, I expect, coming in print.
Both Chip and Janet grew up locally. For a short while, he was involved in the Radio Club of Tacoma, the Mike & Key, and with a young bunch of contesters working with W7RM at Foul Weather Bluff. Then, Chip graduated from the University of Washington before going to work for Amateur Radio companies nationally and internationally.
He kept in touch locally, but frankly; Chip was an international figure. Even then, he was always approachable and willing to chat. He is gone way too soon and will be missed.
Additional comments
In Memory of
Norm Ahrens, N7KWZ
Norman Ahrens N7KWZ – Silent Key
Norm joined this Club in December of 1987 and was a Life member. He was active at the time and was known for bringing a train whistle to our Officer Elections.
On retirement, he moved back home to the Omak area. We never really heard much from him after that but he continued as a member.
In Memory of
Fran Underwood, N7FWZ
Fran was a member of the Club for a short period, 12 years, having joined the Club in 2010. She was last seen at one of the August picnics a couple of years ago.
Fran Underwood N7FWZ – Silent Key
By Dave Smith KB7PSN
On March 8, 2023, the Club was notified that Frances Underwood, N7FWZ, passed away in her sleep in Colorado Springs, CO. She was one of the iconic treasures that had supported the Puget Sound ham radio community for many years.
As I recall one of her stories, she grew up being called Frances. It was her husband, Gene Underwood, W7AKA, who started calling her Fran. She tended to prefer this name.
My experience with the Underwoods goes way back to the early 1990’s. I worked with Gene back on one of the 777 Flight Test programs over near Boeing Field. He was somewhat gruff, but tended to get the tasks done.
After I became a ham radio guy, I searched for a way to help where needed. I stumbled upon the Seattle Seafair Torchlight Parade held during the end of July each year. There was a Parade organizational meeting at the Underwood house in Newcastle. The rest was history – the Underwoods made us feel at home while presenting what happens to make a successful Parade.
During the Parade, both Gene and Fran shared net control operations during the Parade from their nice big RV. They had great chemistry together as the Parade went through Downtown Seattle. I was hooked. For multiple years, I work many intersections along Fourth Avenue between the Seattle Center and the Kingdome. They would also provide similar net op support for both the RAMROD and the Seattle Marathon. After Gene passed away in 2011, Fran still managed to muster up the support until more recent years.
On occasion, she would show up to Club meetings, still with a smile and a willingness to help. Then, a couple of years ago, she moved down to Colorado to be closer to her family. For those who knew her, we will miss her cheerful disposition! RIP Fran Underwood, N7FWZ
Fran Underwood N7FWZ – Silent Key
From Bruce Underwood W7AKB
I will be hosting a memorial service for my mother at the Renton United Methodist Church (2201 NE 4th St Renton WA 98056) on Saturday, June 3 at 1PM. We welcome those from the club who wish to attend.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Bruce Underwood, W7AKB
bruce.underwood@gmail.com
571-218-2451
In Memory of
Roy Fisher, KJ7OKL
Roy Fisher – Silent Key
By Jeff Hite N7FCC
Roy Fisher KJ7OKL became a Silent Key recently.
He earned his Tech ticket in June of 2020 on the heels of his ongoing interest in radio and technology and became a member of Mike & Key in July of 2022. Roy was an accomplished RC model builder and aircraft flyer.
He worked with everything from helicopters, drones, large scale gliders and single engine planes. He built most of his aircraft and his workmanship was fantastic as testified by his follow RC enthusiasts. Roy was a talented RC pilot and would often tow a glider up high into the air with his RC plane, release the glider and fly it and the plane at the same time.
A native of Maple Valley, he retired from Boeing after 38 years and went on to, as he called it, “The best job I ever had” programing graphics. Roy worked in Fortran and Unix and dove into Linux after retirement.
Roy had a long history of radio starting with 11M CB and had been into ham radio many years before getting his recent ticket. He was active on 2M repeater nets, DMR and others and grabbed the phonetics many may recall of: KJ7 “OK Lemonade”.
Prior to his passing he was jumping into setting up his HF station. Roy’s family honored him with a donation of his station to the club including his new Elecraft K4 which will be for sale at the swap meet to benefit the club.
73 OM - KJ7OKL SK
In Memory of
Alfred "Al" Mannings, KI7IXS
Silent Key - Al Mannings - KI7IXS
By Koda Mondragon, KI7IXR
Al Mannings was born on May 27, 1941 in Colchester Vermont. His original call sign was WB1DLW which he earned as a young man, in the days when you had to be able to pass the Morse code portion of the exam. His main joy was always listening to the radio, not so much talking on the radio. Later in life (in his 70s) he earned the call sign KI7IXS.
Al was drafted into the Vietnam War and spent his time at Fort Lewis in the Field Artillery Division where he certified, and worked on, the big-guns that were headed for the front lines. Among his many accomplishments, he was a fixed-wing pilot and continued to fly into his mid-70s. For over a decade, he was a member of the Civil Air Patrol as the East Coast Division Search and Rescue's Mission Pilot and served on standby with them for NASA during the early days of the Space Shuttle Program when NASA wanted to ensure a search and rescue team was available for the Eastern seaboard if needed.
He performed three jumps with the Army Golden Knights, and summitted both Mt. Rainer, and Mt. Saint Helens in the mid-60s. An accomplished, Quarry-men, Machinist, Detective, State Park Campsite Volunteer, and National Parks Ranger, he spent the last 12 years of life living as fully as anyone can live.
In 2016 he renewed his HAM radio license and promptly joined two HAM clubs, the Mike & Key club was one of them. In 2017 he was a volunteer for the annual Mike & Key Fleamarket and was proud to belong to a premiere HAM club with deep roots. He often bragged about being a member of such a prestigious club to his friends and family. He spent the last year of life on Home-Hospice through the VA and passed away peacefully, at home, and in the arms of his loved one (KI7IXR) on October 28, 2022, at the age of 81. He is forever loved and always missed.
In Memory of
Greg Pietrucha, W7HRC
Greg Pietrucha W7HRC – Silent Key
By Jim Aigner N7MU
I just received notice that my friend and a fellow Mike and Key member Greg Pietrucha W7HRC passed away on May 20th, 2022 in Arizona where he and his wife Linda moved a few years ago. He was a member of Mike and Key as well as a volunteer for the Kent ARES team.
Greg grew up in Chicago and attended a technical school in his youth. He undoubtedly shopped in the Allied Radio store there. Some of us remember the regular Allied catalogs we poured over as future hams. That was before Radio Shack was on the scene. For several years, Greg was a valuable and reliable emergency communications volunteer for our Kent Communications Support Team (later the Communications Support Team for Puget Sound Fire).
He loved electronics and especially working with vintage radio equipment. We had lots of fun times on Field Days and during our team drills. Before he retired, he worked in cell phone repair in Kent.
In his later years, he struggled with many heart problems and eventually he reached the point where there wasn't anything else medical science could do for him.
He will be missed by family and friends, particularly fellow hams.
Personal note: Greg was an active member of this Club when he lived in the area. Several times, he and Linda volunteered to label Swap Meet flyers for me. (He lived close by too, always a nice extra.) I’ve attached a picture of him and Linda bell-ringing for the Club in 2011. Always a good chat at the Club meetings. Truly missed when he moved away. -editor
Doug North, NR5W
Doug also participated in the RAMROD (Ride Around Mount Rainier One Day) bike trip back in 2018
In Memory of
Jim Etzwiler, KD7BAT
"Little John" & Steve (father and son)
"Little John" - Swap Meet 2009, money shot
"Little John" - Field Day 1973, Cougar Mtn
"Little John" - Field Day 2004, John supervising, with His pick-em up
truck In the background.
Sad news about Long time ham radio friend Little John WA7HQG (SK) passing away.
I had enjoyed many contacts with him on the Six-Meter 50 MHz VHF band. First on AM @50.4 Megacycles in the early 1970's and then later through-out the years on SSB @50.110 MHz USB during many Sun-Spot-Cycles and Sporadic E openings that took us all on magical RF-Rides with the earth's Sky to Far Away Exotic DX Locations.
Some times just to the East Coast of the America's, and other times out to the Islands of King-How-6 and contact with Bola KH6BB. Then the excitement of working the Frozen Far North Alaska and some times far away into Asia, gave us a lot of things to talk about over the many years. Especially how to build better Six-Meter Beams to work more VHF Band Openings that are fast, quick and short. Some of his Home-Brew 6-meter beams are still in use around the greater Pacific Northwest.
In later Years, 1982-on, he was the Jolly Face of the Mike & Key Flea-Market Little-Old Country Store "Shop-Keeper of Stuff and Unique Treasures". Deals were made by the Thousands, both over the table and some by other "mysterious ways & means". His vast knowledge of our ham radio equipment allowed him to "sell the magic of the sizzle" to every ham young and old.
He kept everyone interested and delightfully Happy, with their new found pieces of Ham Radio Joy.
He will be Missed.
73 de Bill Balzarini KL7BB/K7MWC
John Rehnstrom "Little John" WA7HQG - Silent Key
By Steve R Rehnstrom, KE7KRT
My earliest recollection of Dad's involvement in amateur radio was his clandestine meetings in trailers with adecidedly dastardly group called the Rebels. This somehow led to "The Mike & Key Club", which then led to a long procession of glowing tubes and ozone from his Lafayette HA-460, Swan 250 (Drifty) and Drake TR-6. What I originally thought was a trophy he would talk to, ended up being an Astatic D-104 microphone.
In the late 70's, I had the misfortune of a broken femur which led to my being home on crutches and invariably out in the ham shack watching Dad work seemingly non-stop openings on 6 meters to Japan. I also learned that his old black and white TV tuned to “snow” would occasionally produce a picture, cueing him in to the band opening in Hilo, Hawaii.* Now I was hooked!
An avid experimenter, he would build his own VHF antennas and chili (both with tremendous results). Field Day, Fox Hunts, McMicken Heights auctions, breakfast at Cyndy's House of Pancakes, Santa Talks at Children's Hospital, Seafair Parades, Country Store, he enjoyed all of it. Did I mention Field Day? Bug spray.
Dad thoroughly enjoyed his many friends and family in Mike & Key ARC in his 50 years of involvement.
It is with great sadness that I relate Little John passed away comfortably on March 16th. Any remembrances are requested to be made by donation to the Mike & Key ARC in appreciation for all of the great work done for the community and wonderful times shared.
KE7KRT, Harmonic
[*Editor: Snow is white noise on ananalog TV screen. The Analog TV Channels, were in the low VHF band. For example, channel 2 is about 54 MHz - near our 6 meter band. If the audio and/or a fuzzy to sharp picture showed up on the TV it indicated there was an opening on 6m.]
In Memory of
Raleigh Elkins, WB7WNF
Darla Harris, KC7SIT and Raleigh Elkins, WB7WNF
Raleigh Elkins, WB7WNF (from 2010 Swap Meet)
Raleigh Elkins, WB7WNF sitting in his shack
In Memory of
Aldo Samboni, N7MYM
Aldo, N7MYM (N7Make Your Move) and his wife, June, lived in a large craftsman home in Magnolia. He drove a 60s Jaguar four door that never made it into the garage due to Aldo's many wood working projects. He loved to make sawdust. June was always after Aldo to "wash the sedan". "Stop making sawdust and wash the sedan." She could see the driver's side of the car from her vantage point at the kitchen window and it always bothered her that the car was dirty when she drove it to run errands. After years of harping, Aldo finally consented and washed the half of the car that she could see from the kitchen. They had a good marriage and he was an excellent story teller on our nightly 10 meter net, Aldo was quite active with 10-10 International.
Al Hopwood, KB7THX
I put up and maintained most of his antennas for a long time I called there just over a year ago and he was not doing well he was a great guy I will miss him.
Jim Waltosz, KF7SX
Aldo was a good mentor to new members and to lawyers.
Mike Hansen, KG7MX
Aldo joined the Club back in 1989 and hasn't been seen around the club since 2008.
David Smith, KB7PSN
Aldo & June Samboni lived in one of the recognized "Ballard Historical Society" homes, identified under BallardHistory.org
Additional commentary / info on Facebook
In Memory of
Frank Henshaw, K7VMG
Silent Key - Frank Henshaw, K7VMG
By David Smith KB7PSN
Back when I was working at Boeing, I would attend their Boeing Employee Amateur Radio club meetings. At the beginning of each Club meeting, we would introduce ourselves. We were either Employees, Vendors, Retirees (hibernating BEAR), or Guests. When it would come to Frank, he would identify first as a Vendor. Then, after retiring, he would be a Retired Vendor.
As I got more involved with the Mike & Key, Frank became more of a presence in the various activities we would get involved in. One year, he even ran, and won, as the Club Vice President. During many Club meeting introductions, he would introduce himself as K – 7 – Vicious – Mean - & Grouchy; although, he wasn’t all that visicious! His personality showed well as he enjoyed being part of the Club. In recognition of his many contributions to the club, he became recipient of the Ken Jackson Award in 2002.
During a few introductory portions of the regular Club meeting, I recall sitting at the table with more than oneFrank -- Frank (Carter) K7VMG, Frank (Vyborny) KF7TX, Frank (Henshaw) K7VMG, and Frank (Kreiger) KA7QHG. It was Frank, Frank, Frank, and Frank! And, not wanting to break the pattern, I suggested that we could “all be frank,” but then introduced myself as Dave.
Frank would hang around with Darla (Harris) KC7SIT. They both helped out considerably at many of our Club Swap Meets in Puyallup, always with a smile. And, once every two years, I would visit with both of them at several of their Sumner, Bonney Lake, and Puyallup favorite morning restaurants for breakfast. A great opportunity to share stories of what has happened since last visit.
So long, dear friend! 73 DE KB7PSN, Dave
In Memory of
LW Abel, K7LWA
Silent Key – LW Abel, K7LWA
submitted by Dave KB7PSN
I received a phone call from Daniel Stevens, related to the one of our Club Members. L W Abel / K7LWA, is now a Silent Key. (I think his first name was Leroy, but he preferred “LW”. )
My first contact with LW was at a Valley Communication Center Citizen Academy (down in Auburn, WA). (Circa - the year after the Auburn Drive-In Theater closed). He joined the Mike & Key ARC shortly thereafter and was one who kept me appraised of his life with Shelley, KF7TBA, his YL.
LW was one of the instructors in Daniel Stevens / KL7WM’s classes. In 2017, he also became one of the Trustees for the PSRG Repeater, 146.96, being active up on that repeater on Crown Hill, Seattle.
He had an extremely positive attitude and seemed to enjoy being a ham radio operator. We would touch base at a few Sea-Pac Conventions in Seaside, OR; a couple of Communication Academy’s down at South Seattle College; and a couple of brief chats up on the PSRG Repeater. During the many holidays, we would exchange celebratory greetings, simple sentences, via text messages. Within the last 3 years, I believe he only attended one Club meeting. He just couldn’t fit it in his busy schedule.
It was nice to have him, and Shelley, both as good friends.
So long, LW!
XYL Shelley Stark, KF7TBA
In Memory of
Jim Etzwiler, KD7BAT
A big hole was torn open in the fabric of the Mike & Key ARC. Jim KD7BAT, a member since March 1999, become a Silent Key today, February 19, 2018.
Jim has been very active in the Mike & Key; being Treasurer for a number of years, representing us at WWARA meetings, and our Webmaster for as long as I can remember. He was an active VE and a Pop Brown winner. He was active in outside activities including managing communication call outs for the King County Search and Rescue and providing communications at Seafair events. He was active in regional and national Mineralogy Societies.
He was essential to the operations of the Fleamarket and Field Day too. He, along with wife Rusty, were friends to many club members.
We will miss Jim.
Silent Key - Jim Etzwiler KD7BAT
submitted by Michael, N7WA
This one hits me particularly hard and I am not afraid to say this is really difficult to write. Jim was a good friend personally and to the Club. Jim has been a member of the Club since March 1999 and his impact has been considerable since he joined.
He was our Treasurer for several years. Even when not on the Board, we was a fixture at many Board meetings. He was our Webmaster. He was an unsung hero of the Fleamarket out at registration plus he would show up wherever something needed doing. Field Day was no different. He upgraded to Extra so he could do VE Exams. He was one of our representatives to the the Salvation.
Army. He was there for every Postal Food Drive and organized our Christmas Bell Ringing efforts. He worked with King County Search and Rescue. He worked Seafair.
He was active in non-Ham radio activities as well. He was a well-deserved Pop Brown Award winner in 2012. The Membership Committee made him the inaugural “Handy Ham “ Award winner in 2015.
Jim will be missed greatly.
Silent Key - Jim Etzwiler, KD7BAT
From David Smith, KB7PSN, Club President
Recently, the Club lost a member, Jim Etzwiler, KD7BAT, a soft spoken individual who seemed to enjoy helping out. Jim was a long-timer in the Club and helped out in many different ways.
In recent years, Jim was very helpful during Field Day exercise over in Ft Flagler. In the morning, he would help cook breakfast at Camp Wilson. He would ensure that there was enough morning coffee to go around – when the pot was empty, all of a sudden there was more brewing. Someone would ensure that there was ample the water supply up on The Bluff, collecting ice from the Camp Wilson ice machine, as needed. He would even stick around to help clean up (mopping, sweeping, taking out the garbage, etc.) after everyone went home.
Many times, Jim would volunteer to tow one of the tower trailers from Skyway TV up to Fort Flagler and back again, across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Nice to see the familiar tower and equipment over there during set-up. When something was needed on The Bluff – Jim always seemed to have the item in his truck or knew how to get one.
During Flea Market, Jim was frequently seen helping out, where needed. Even supplying one of the cash boxes for the Country Store. As Club Treasurer a couple of years ago, he would ensure that all money was accounted for (serving as Treasurer for a while, I can appreciate what he did) -- there is a lot of behind the scenes work done to ensure everything flows correctly.
For the longest time, Jim was the Webmaster for our Club web site, http://www.mikeandkey.org with me as the back-up webmaster. He helped the current Web Committee get its new “look and feel” up and running by creating an initial version of the site map.
Jim was also the Club interface to the Salvation Army Captain and crew. In past years, he helped recruit help for both the May Postal Food Drive at the Renton Rotary and the even managed to get a crew together to work the “red Kettles” during the Christmas holiday season.
Back in 2015, the Club awarded him the first “Helping Hams Award,” an award given by the Membership Committee at the Annual Awards Banquet (in 2016, this award was given to Peter Glaskowsky, the last recipient).
At the March 2018 Board Meeting, the name of this award was changed to the “Jim Etzwiler Helping Hams Award.” The Club looks forward to finding a recipient this year at this year’s Awards Banquet – someone who has a similar passion for helping out.
So long to our friend and colleague, Jim.
When Mike was Club President, his call was K7OV
Silent Key - Mike Eakins K7OV / W7DME
David Michael Eakins of Renton, WA passed away at the age of 69 on February 13, 2018 at the Kline Galland Home in Seattle, WA. He was born on June 28, 1948 in Des Moines, Iowa. David met his wife Mary at a picnic in Arizona and together they celebrated their 49th Wedding anniversary in October 2017. They settled in Renton and raised 3 children.
David was a merchant marine, working as a radio operator. He had such a passion for his work that he also was a Ham radio (Amateur) operator during his spare time and always participated during the 3-day annual field event where the focus is to try contacting as many people as possible from different countries. Mike held a number of Board positions and was President of the Club in 2007
From Rowland W7DNE: With sadness I would like to inform that Mike Eakins passed away yesterday. For those of you that did not know him he was the generous soul from the SeaTac Repeater Group that has let us use the 55 repeater for our ARC business and nets. From what I understand that will not change. Mike's radio knowledge was very deep. I use to say he had forgotten more than I will ever know. He taught me a great deal in the radio world and I will always appreciate that fact. Sometimes Mike could be a little grumpy but that was usually due to med issues during his struggle with diabetes. Mike lost that battle yesterday and he will be greatly missed.Mike
In Memory of
Chuck Graff, K7CHV
Silent Key, Chuck K7CHV
submitted by Chuck WA7EBH
It is with great sadness that I report that Chuck Graff, K7CHV, passed away on Jan. 31, 2018.
I first met Chuck somewhere around 1974 when we were both taking flying lessons at the old Bellevue airfield. We became very close friends; his mom even remarked that we were like brothers. We even referred to each other as brothers.
Chuck served as an electronics tech in the Coast Guard during the Viet Nam conflict. Chuck was stationed on a Loran station on the Island of Yap in the south Pacific. He had a ham station installed and was a rare DX station. He loved working CW. Hal, N7NW, served as his QSL manager stateside.
Chuck worked for WSP radio shop in Bellevue as a radio tech and later as the shop supervisor. He went to work for Puget Sound Energy as a SCADA tech and later as a lead on the remote control of the power and gas control systems.
Chuck was involved in several ham organization; PARS (Puget Amateur Radio Society (Puget Sound Power/Energy)) and along with Bob St Andre, had PSE buy and install repeaters around the northwest. Chuck was also involved in the Bellevue emergency communications ARES group early on, Washington DX organization, Kent Valley Radio club, and our own Mike and Key Club, helping on the Flea Market and Field Day.
Besides ham radio, some of Chuck’s other interests were; shooting, photography, blacksmithing, star gazing, clock building and repair, woodworking and many others.
Wife Lorie, N7LCO, wants to thank all of the well-wishers that have contacted her. Chuck will be buried at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, on April 4, his birthday. More info to follow in the March Relay.
All of us will miss his sense of humor and laughter .Rest in peace, my friend.
73 de WA7EBH
In Memory of
Prahlad Ayengar, KB7AFS
Prahlad Ayengar, one of our Club Life Members, has passed away.
He hasn't been around the Club for the longest time. Last time I recall seeing him, he was on the pallet crew down @ our annual Swap Meet, when Frank Kreiger was in charge of pallet crew.
Dave, KB7PSN
Mike,
I noticed a possible correlation you may be interested in. A fellow named Prahlad K N Ayengar (age 85) passed away back in Dec 2017. Might this be the same fellow listed in your newsletter as being with the club for 31 years? His picture looks familiar to me.
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=prahlad-ayengar&pid=188096092
The name spelled in the obituary is the same name appearing on License KB7AFS listed by the FCC, and this call sign correlates with the one for Prahlad Ayengar appearing in your newsletter.
Kenn, AC6DK
In Memory of
Jean Swiney, KB7CLF
I just heard from Earl Swiney WZ7H, that Jean KB7CLF became a Silent Key the day before Thanksgiving. Earl has been Jean's care giver for the past 5 years so we haven't seen much of him. Jean and Earl were married for 45 years.
Since it's been nearly two months, he talked like he is getting on with life. He even thought about coming to the Club meeting tomorrow but other priorities came up. I expect he'll be at the Fleamarket.
I haven't seen Jean for years because of her disabilities. Still, I will miss her. Before we started doing Fleamarket flyers at the November Club Meeting, Jean helped me for years by taking almost half the flyers to label (we didn't use envelopes then). I think of her every November. She would have been impressed by by what we do at the November meeting.
Rest in Peace Jean SK...
In Memory of
Wayne Moddison, K6DOW
Wayne Moddison K6DOW became a Silent Key on Wednesday, November 15th, 2017.
Services were held Tuesday (Nov 21) at St Steven the Martyr Catholic Church in Renton.
When he was active, he was highly involved in the local Public Service community.
Wayne was a Life Member of the Mike & Key ARC and was also awarded the Pop Brown in 1991.
Wayne Moddison, K6DOW – Silent Key
submitted by Dave KB7PSN
Henry Wayne Moddison, K6DOW, born Nov 27, 1941, was a Club member for just short of 33 years, living in Kent.
My first contact with Wayne was as a new ham to the Mike and Key back in 1993. Later, in 1994, I ended up working with him at Boeing. His desk was a stone’s throw away, we would interact on a daily basis, sharing current events, family happenings, and stories of the Club. He had many passions, spending time back and forth between California and Washington State, participating in road rallies along the Al-Can Highway, and helping out as one of the Seafair Parade Marshals for many years.
When I left Boeing to work in a small startup company near Woodinville, Wayne picked me up an etched Boeing glass set (water pitcher with matching set of glasses) After working at Boeing for just over 10 years, it was a great parting gift (Thanks)!
In later years, we would share many stories as I would pass by him at the Gold Gate check-in area during various Flea Markets. As people would collect their packets, he would make sure that they felt welcome. He was very patient.
Both Wayne and his wife even operated a small Asian restaurant in Kent. Wayne passed away on November 15. He will be missed. So long dear friend!
73, Dave
Dan was an avid supporter of our annual Swap Meet (as "HotPress Embroidered Hats" vendor).
Paul was a former member of the Club. Haven't seen him around much in the past few months, though.
I remember Paul, and son, Dennis, showing up at various Club meetings, together. He was always "soft spoken," but still seemed to enjoy being around. I would always welcome both of them when I saw them, many times asking which one was father and which one was son.
He became a silent key back on June 19, 2016. He was 86.
With kind thoughts, David Smith KB7PSN
Paul L. Donnor, KD7SSD
Paul L. Donnor of SW Seattle, who was a member of your amateur radio club for some years, passed quietly from this life in his own bed at home accompanied by myself, his son. He died on June 19th, very early in the morning; Father's Day. He was 86.
My father enjoyed the club a good deal. It would sadden him if he missed a meeting. Thank you as an organization for what you do, and for what you meant to my father.
Sincerely,
Dennis P. Donnor
In 2016, Field Day MVP was renamed 'Alan Hughes Memorial Field Day MVP Award' in his honor
The club, the community, Pierce County Search and Rescue, and his family have experienced a terrible loss.
There are very few who contribute friendship, and help without expectation. Alan Hughes was the most
generous man with his time that I have ever known. Your example has become a strong part of my life, and
for many others. I celebrate your having been one of my closest friends in life.
Chuck Benefiel, N7STR
Michael Dinkelman ... Jul 21, 2015 at 12:21 PM
This leaves one heck of a big hole/heart to fill in the Club.
Posted from family member on Facebook overnight
Facebook
So long, dear friend! Alan Hughes, KB7SVU
73,
David Smith
KB7PSN
Alan KB7SVU SK
by Michael N7WA
Many of us were shocked by the passing of long time member and friend Alan KB7SVU. His health hasn't been that great lately but he didn't let that be a deterrent to getting around. He was at our Flea Market despite just getting out the hospital back in February and was present at Field Day in June. He was in the middle of plans to ride to Sturgis again when his body finally gave out.
Alan loved to climb towers and did a lot of tower work for Hams who had the need. He took many of you up your first tower. He's been in charge of security at the Flea Market for years. He was an ever-present fixture at Field Day and only recently gave up the responsibility of putting up the Club towers. He stored and maintained the Club equipment and tower trailers. He was highly involved in River Watch down in Pierce County and helped organize communications for the annual Rainier to Ruston Run. There is no denying that Alan was an essential part of the fabric of this Club and the local Amateur Community.
I remember first seeing Alan when the 50th anniversary WWII Memorial operation was being planned for the Battleship Missouri when it was still berthed in Bremerton. He came to our club looking for volunteers and helpers. Those of you who operated from the Missouri can thank him for helping pull it off. Afterwards, he must have decided that he liked what he saw as he and XYL Tressie both joined the Mike and Key in December 1996. The rest is history.
At his memorial, there was a good continent of Mike & Key. In addition, there were many Pierce County Hams and representatives of served agencies. (When I saw his son, I thought was I was seeing Alan with his hair dyed black.) Alan was buried in Eastern Washington which is actually his home territory. I'm going to miss seeing that ambling form walking in to a Club meeting. Better yet, I'll miss that 6 wheel monstrosity called a Gator running around the Fairgrounds.
Rest in peace Alan ...-.-
Jack also had callsigns = W7JTB & KB7ZS.
When he was Club President in 1989, it was KB7ZS.
Jack Burrell, N7ZS has passed on to become a Silent Key
By Michael Dinkelman N7WA
Jack has been in failing health for a number of years and after a couple recent falls, experienced a quick decline and passed early this week. Chuck N7BV had visited him on Sunday and mentioned that Jack didn't have long to go.
Jack was a 34 year member joining the Mike & Key in September 1980.
When I first met him, he was KB7ZS. He guided me when I foolishly volunteered to be Activity Manager and had NO idea on how to organize a Club Banquet. He was an active member until hip problems made travel difficult. For many years, he made most Club meetings, helped at the Flea Market, and attended Field Days in his RV.
He served on the Board as Treasurer and was awarded the Club's highest honor, the Pop Brown Award, in 1990. Jack retired from the Navy (as a pilot, I believe), worked for the Forest Ridge School as an accountant, and even drove a school bus in retirement. The Mike & Key benefited from the use of that school for a number of celebrations. Per his wishes, there will be no memorial.
Jack will be interred at sea by the Navy.
Rest in peace Jack ...-.-
Jack Burrell / N7ZS, Silent Key
By David Smith KB7PSN
Combining information from his club bio written for the April 1992 Relay, FCC database, discussion with wife and friends, and viewing club web site, John Thomas Burrell, aka Jack Burrell, was born in Seattle, and raised in Montana where he entered the Navy in 1946. After 22 years flying with the Navy, he retired in the Seattle area in 1968.
When Boeing shut down in ’69, Jack returned to school and received a degree in accounting In 1972. Varied positions led to Forest Ridge School where he was the business manager until he retired in 1986. He was foot loose, more or less, since then.
Jack first became interested in amateur radio and was licensed in 1978 as KB7ZS, an Advanced class license. He upgraded to Extra class and has held vanity call sign W7JTB for a while, until finally obtaining N7ZS vanity call for some time.
At his home in Bellevue, Jack worked primarily the HF bands doing primarily traffic handling, some DXing, and minor contesting. Field day was a high point in his radio activities. While mobile, Jack occasioned to monitor 6M, 2M, and 220.
Jack joined the Mike & Key in 1980, has served many officer positions – Trustee, Treasurer, and President. He was the recipient of the MVP Field Day Award in 1991 and was awarded the Pop Brown Award in 1990.
My personal experience with Jack was in handing over some of the reins as new Treasurer. He and Carolyn / WV7Q were on my Finance Committee until recently when he was replaced by Daniel / KL7WM.
Jack became a silent key on October 12, 2014. He was 85. He and his wife, Dodie, were married for 62 years. They have 2 Daughters and 2 Grand Daughters.
Additional commentary / info on Facebook
In Memory of
Terry Dettman, WX7S
Terry was the author of a Book published in 1993 (ISBN-13: 978-1565291508, ISBN-10: 1565291506), DOS Programmer's Reference.
Terry Dettman, WX7S, was Club Radio Officer from October, 2003 until June, 2005
We lost an incredible mind Terry Dettmann, the best Technology Architect I have ever known has died. He was a Ph.D., Nuclear Physicist and Naval Officer and that was just his life's warm up.
Terry was the inventor and patent holder of technology that wasn't supposed to work - but did. I managed a team that built out the software side of the system and we got a chance to work closely with Terry. We were stunned when we learned the "secret" to one of his inventions. It was so elegant and simple - and was the foundation to our very successful company.
He was the Chief Scientist with an office that looked right out of a movie. Think a less hyper Doc Brown from Back to the Future - that was Terry. I saw amazing gadgets in his office - many that never saw the light of day. My favorite - the 1" floppy drive. He also got me hooked on Time Management Theory and building automation tools (way before anyone thought of it - Terry was right there).
You were in his good graces when he'd stop in your office to "run something by you". It took me several years to earn that - and the ideas were stunning, scary, and often came close to violating physics laws. But a lot of them worked.
Terry and I spoke a few times over the years. He was heart broken when his only son (N7NDE identified below) passed away from a life long fight with Juvenile Diabetes.
To say he touched a lot of lives is too simple. Terry changed people and organizations though out his life. He was the role model for using technology to make things better and one of the earliest and best geeks I have ever known.
Code well Terry - you are missed.
Mike Manoske
October 29, 2013
Sad News…Terry Dettmann WX7S, SK
By Jim Etzwiler KD7BAT
Terry Dettmann, WX7S, became a silent key Saturday, October 19. Terry has been a member of Mike & Key since 2002 and enjoyed the challenges of QRP operation.
Terry was a Mike and Key board director for one year followed by service as the Radio Officer for several years until a health problem forced him to resign.
Terry was also active in KCESAR (King County Explorer Search and Rescue). He served as Director of Communications for KCESAR since 2008. This included being sure the communications equipment was ready before every mission and training and scheduling volunteers for in-town communications to support every search and rescue mission.
Terry's son, "TJ" (N7NDE) became a silent key in 2002.
In Memory of
Harry Lewis, W7JWJ
You and I struggle to learn the individual sounds of each Morse Code Letter and Number. Memorizing each pattern of combined short and long sounds to form a recognizable and useable language symbol. This method takes time.
My having watched Harry Lewis W7JWJ perform his High Speed CW Magic for many years, it became obvious that he was using his highly honed skills as a professional broadcast engineer to gain his special insight on how to copy CW so fast.
As a broadcast engineer Harry always had the TV station transmitter "Live-On-The-Air" with a continuous streaming carrier.
I think that Harry cleverly figured out that he could apply the same concept to copying the Morse Code. He could leave the transmitter carrier always "solid on the air" and then just break it up with properly placed Spaces to form the individual Letters and Numbers.
What a concept ! Learning only One Element, "Spaces".
Next he would break up the continuous carrier using even longer spaces to form the spaces between the individual Letters and Numbers.
He then moved on with his high speed CW proficiency, to leave a lot more space between each of the words in a conversation or message.
Lastly the real genius behind his CW magic came when he perfected the use of the even longer space. Sometime used when sending Vees.
Harry was quick to realize that he did not have to learn the complex patterns of dits and dahs, but rather only where he had to place the "spaces" in order to break-up the transmitter signal. All of that professional broadcast training was really put to good use.
As we all know that sending Long or Short Spaces requires no effort at all, because to send a space, you have to do nothing ! This is why he progressed so quickly to copying such high speeds of the Morse Code.
After all, CW is called Continuous Wave, and that the Sending of Spaces was the Magical Joy of Harry Lewis W7JWJ.
73 de Bill Balzarini, KL7BB
In Memory of
Jack Grimmett, N7IHS
Jack Grimmett, 75, Former Issaquah resident, died August 30, 2013, with members of his family at his home in Port Angeles, WA. A service will be held Saturday September 7th at The Church of Latter Day Saints, 650 Pocatello Avenue, American Falls, Idaho and burial will take place at Falls View Cemetery. Jack was born March 25th, 1938, in Pocatello, ID., to Jack and Margaret Grimmett. He attended American Falls High School and graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering.
June 14, 1986 he married his best friend Vicki Germscheid in Seattle. Jack came to Washington State in 1960 and was employed by the Boeing Company Defense and Space as an electrical engineer. He worked on major programs including the Apollo Missions, Star Wars and the Space Station.
He retired in 1996. In retirement he enjoyed Amateur Radio and held several positions with the Mike and Key Amateur Radio Club including President, Trustee, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Treasurer. Jack was noted for his generosity, kind heart and sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife Vicki, daughter Teresa Grimmett of Seattle, Wa, son Jack Grimmett of San Francisco, Ca, son Scott and daughter in law Lisa Grimmett of Saratoga Springs, New York, grandchildren Cheyenne, Dylan and Marshall, brother Tom Grimmett of Las Vegas, NV, brother Frank Grimmett of Bakersfield, Ca., Uncle Gene Adams of Seattle, WA.
Some Sad News – Ermanno Rusi N7VIQ, SK
David Smith posted in Mike and Key Amateur Radio Club (K7LED)
http://www.memorialobituaries.com/memorials/memorials.cgi?action=Obit&memid=211911&clientid=flint
Ermanno Rusi / N7VIQ, former member of the Mike & Key ARC became a Silent Key on May 24, 2013. He was 83. Always remember his jubilant voice on the local Seattle repeaters, talking about his "pride and joy", his garden, complete with arugula.
In Memory of
Mary Lewis, W7QGP
Mary, W7QGP, became a silent key March 12, 2013.
Mary's love of life and Ham Radio lead her to serve the Ham Radio community over the years as an:
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| V | V | T | E | S | T | I | W | I | L | L | M | I | S | S | Y | O | U | A | L | L |
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In Memory of
Mike LaFerla, K7JML
Contributed by Dave Smith, KB7PSN
Source/Obituary full text can be found at:
http://sherman-knapp.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1944668&fh_id=10890
James "Mike" Michael LaFerla
(October 10, 1943 ‐ January 29, 2013)
James Michael LaFerla “Mike” of Newport, Washington died on Tuesday, January 29, 2013. Mike was born on October 10, 1943 in Queens New York to Salvatore and Anne LaFerla. He was raised in New York and also attended schools there. After graduating from High School, Mike entered the Air Force in 1963 and became a jet engine mechanic. He was honorably discharged in 1967. He worked at various jobs until he started working for New York Telephone in early 1970. In June of 1970 Mike married Ronnie LaFerla. They had two children; Michael and Denyse. In 1978 the family moved to western Washington, as Mike was transferred with the phone company. He went from a cable splicer to a communications technician. He retired in June 2002 after 32 years. Mike was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and received his 30 year coin last February 2012. During his sobriety, he became a ham radio operator, participating in many radio functions and was a member of several different radio clubs.
In Memory of
Paul Gilmore, N7DIP
Some Sad News…
Contributed by Sam Sullivan N7RHE
From: Sam Sullivan
Sent: Sunday, January 6, 2013 3:53 PM
Subject: Paul Gilmore N7DIP SK
Source/Obituary full text can be found at:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161769630#fbLoggedOut
Paul T. Gilmore
Paul was born in Bellevue, WA Sept 16, 1924 and died December 14, 2012, preceded in death by his only true love, Mary Gilmore (nee Strong) almost 8 years earlier after 57 years of extremely happy marriage. He served honorably in The Marine Corps during WWII, and while never bragging about his heroics, was quite proud to be a Marine, and flew both Old Glory and the USMC flag every day at home, right up until the end. Both flags will remain at half-staff for a few days.
In Memory of
Eugene Underwood, W7AKA
Remembering Gene W7AKA, SK
By Ivy Nelson-Groves WA7IVY, President Some sad news. Many of you have already heard that Club member Gene Underwood, W7AKA, passed away on Thursday, 8 Dec at 2:15 pm. His passing is a great loss to not only the Ham community, but to the many Public Service events he supported. Many of my colleagues at work knew Gene and have sent me messages saying how much they respected Gene, and how sad they are at his passing. I first met Gene at the Kitsap Color Classic when I was a brand new Ham.
He showed me the public service ropes and patiently answered all of my stupid questions. I’ve always considered him a mentor in the amateur radio world. I was overjoyed when he and Fran became members of the Mike and Key, and I looked forward to seeing both of them each month.
I last saw Gene right before I closed the Medical Net at the Seattle Marathon three days after Thanksgiving. My last memories of Gene were of him smiling and happily doing what he loved doing. I will keep that picture of him in my mind forever. Please keep Fran in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Now on to what I was going to write before Thursday afternoon. At the December General meeting, the M&K Board will be presenting the 2012 Budget for approval by the Membership. The M&K Club 2011 books will be audited before the January 2012 meeting.
Mike N7WA and Hal N7NW will have the signup sheets for the FLEA MARKET at our monthly meeting. Remember that the Flea Market is actually a 2 day event for us (Friday and Saturday), so feel free to sign up for two or three (or more!) shifts. If you want the easiest job available, be sure to sign up for the Announcing Team! (wink-wink!). If you’ve never been to or worked the Flea Market, don’t fret – the February program will be all about it!
And in March are the annual Officer/Trustee elections. All the officer positions other than Radio Officer will be up for election, along with Trustees #2 and #4. This would be a great time to consider throwing your hat in the ring if you are inclined to run. We will be taking nominations at the January, February and March meetings, right on up to the time we vote for the positions. I found the best way to find out what is going on in the Club is to serve on the Board. And at times, it can be a lot of fun!
W7AKA[SK] – Memorial Service Email from Bruce Underwood W7AKB:
As most of you know, my father, Gene Underwood, became a silent key on Thursday, December 8. We welcome all of you to come celebrate his life, the service will be held on Tuesday, December 13 at 3 PM at: First United Methodist Church , 1934 108th Avenue Northeast, Bellevue, WA, 98004. 425-454-2059.
In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to either the American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association. Let me thank you all for your support you have provided over the years for the events my parents have coordinated Please keep my mom, Fran, in your prayers.
Shown in this picture, Frank Vyborny, KF7TX, someone else, and me. As I remember, Frank had worked in the garment industry. In fact, one of his fingers was shortened due to an accident there. While visiting with him in many occurrences, we got to be friends and occasionally had breakfast together. Got to visit with him many times - a true friend. In early 2010, he ended up handing me an HF radio for my use. It was a great treasure.
Dave, KB7PSN
In Memory of
Lewis A Navarre W7QMP .
Lewis A Navarre was born February 1, 1934 and died on August 30, 2009. He obtained his first amateur license in 1952. Lew served in the US Navy from 1952 to 1957 as a Marine Electronics Technician. Lew was a life member of ARRL and a 17 year member of the Mike & Key ARC. He was active at flea market and was a VE for several years. Lew was active in the Columbia Basin net and enjoyed hf contacts but especially liked SSTV and the new digital modes. He was also very expert with firearms and ballistics, from black powder to the most modern calibers. He was a student of many subjects and read on many subjects. He enjoyed music and learned to play the banjo. We will miss Lew at our thrice weekly coffee get togethers at Galliano's Cucina.
Lew worked for several years for Radar Electric starting in 1957. He was active in installation and maintenance of ship electronics and radars in the Seattle area. Lew was a volunteer fireman for the city of Kent for almost 30 years.
Lew and Claire, KD7FMP, were married on February 15, 1958. Lew is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 51 years, Claire, his sister, Judy Brzozowski, and his six children, Bob (Debbie) Navarre, Pete (Dena) Navarre, Patty (Steve) Dartt, Barbara Schweitzer, Karen (Ken) McCulloch and David Navarre. He had eleven grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Lew was very proud of his Indian heritage and spoke of it often at coffee. Wab kno (his native name) was a proud member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, The Keepers of the Fire, of Shawnee, Oklahoma.
A graveside service was held September 11, 2009, at Tahoma National Cemetery.
In 2011, Charles Sundberg acquired the call of his Elmer. K7PHZ was issued as a vanity call then
In Memory of
Victor ZumBrunnen, WB7TBR
My first meeting with Vic was when I started attending the retired hams coffee klatch three mornings a week at Galliano's Cacina in Seatac. Other regular club attendees were Nils Hallstrom, W7RUJ (SK), Jo Hallstrom, KB7UFM (SK), Frank Krieger, KA7QHG (SK), Carl Butler, W7PRW (SK), Dick Vance, K7NEX, Jeannie Svennungsen, N7JJJ, Bill Harris, W7KXB, and numerous other hams.
As I got to know Vic I was impressed by his varied background, other hobbies, his wit and humor, and overall pleasant nature. His love of his family was paramount in his mind. He was true to his friends and the greater community. In the truest definition of the word, Vic was a true gentleman.
Victor S. ZumBrunnen was born April 9, 1920 in Newcastle, Wyoming. As a young man he moved to Seattle to begin a 41 year career with The Boeing Company as an aeronautical engineer. His hobbies included photography, camping, amateur radio, and he was a skilled woodworker. He also served as a Boy Scout Master in his younger years.
Vic was a twenty three year member of the Mike & Key ARC and received the Pop Brown award in 1988. He was net control for several years on the Alaska Pacific Net.
Victor moved to Mesa, Arizona during his last years of retirement. In his true manner Vic became a member of the Mesa Sunlife ARC and served two years as their president. Vic would come up for the summer with a short stop at his friend Barbara's guest ranch near Kimberly, OR. We were anticipating his arrival this summer when he had medical problems at the ranch.
Victor S. ZumBrunnen, WB7TBR , became a silent key June 18, 2008.
In Memory of
Steve Tillett, K7KOT
Steve was one of the group of Mike and Key Charter members which reorganized and rejuvinized the club in 1970. He was very active in the club for many years. He was awarded the Pop Brown award in 1972 and was club president in 1979.
Steve, K7KOT, became a silent key December 11, 2007.
In Memory of
Ray Leslie, WA7EKH
Ray was a life member of the Mike & Key Club and "Pop" Brown Award recipent in 1980.
We have lost another long time Club member. Ray Leslie, WA7EKH, went silent key on October 15th. Ray Leslie was a major part of this Club for a long time through the 1980's and first half part of the 1990's. Seemingly gruff, (OK, he WAS REALLY gruff) to those who didn't get to know him; Ray really cared about the Club. Once you did get to know him, the gruffness was just a facade (he reminded me a lot of my Grandfather that way)
My first major dealings with Ray had to do with the Relay. He was always looking for articles (things haven’t changed much) and I bit. This was all during the cusp of the PC computer era (the mid 80's) and Ray experimented a lot in computer publishing (a big step up from the paste-up days) and the putting the Club member data into a database. When Ray gave up the Relay, it became my turn and I got a lot of help and advice (as well as that clunky database program)
Ray was highly involved in the Fleamarket as the Registration Chair after our move to the Pavilion. Again, he introduced computers into the process. Diane, my wife, spent her first days as a fleamarket worker Ray's guidance. When he stepped down from that, Diane was able to step in.
I remember when the ARRL decided to publish the design of the "Mike & Keyer" but wanted a printed circuit board to be available. Ray stepped up, and using computer layout software, he produced one and even paid to have some made up which he then tried to sell in kits. I doubt he ever made his money back but he had fun and learned a lot.
Ray used to stop by our house (with his wife Eleanor) when we lived in downtown Kent for social visits. The conversation frequently drifted to making the fleamarket the "Dayton of the West" and getting the Club a permanent Home/Clubhouse. Alas, over the past decade Ray drifted away and we haven't talked in years though Diane and I have wondered frequently how he was doing (especially around Fleamarket time). I still have visions of him upstairs at his house surrounding by computers and stacks of magazines/papers.
Which reminds me, Ray used to perform paper drives back when paper was worth something. He would try to get club members to bring newspaper in on Club meeting day and then took it down for recycling. For a while, there was money in it but even Ray’s big truck couldn't haul enough to make it worthwhile in the end.
Ray was chairman of the Education Committee and made sure there were classes available to help new hams get their licenses.
One last thing. Check the signature in your booklet of bylaws. You’ll find Ray’s signature there in the last revision. Ray always made sure the bylaws got a regular scrubbing every couple years and usually ran the committee. Some of us wondered if it was worth all that but you could never doubt Ray's willingness to jump in and volunteer.
Ray, WA7EKH, became a silent key October 15, 2007.
In Memory of
Ralph Schumacher, WX7T.
Ralph was a member of the Mike & Key Club since 1988.
Ralph had a love affair with Ham Radio. He was inspired by a brother-in-law in Connecticut some time in the middle 1980's and has been active since.
Ralph was instumental in getting Washington State to adopt a PRB-1 type law about keeping local jurisdictions from adopting antenna restriction ordinaces.
Ralph, you will be missed by all who knew you.
Ralph, WX7T, became a silent key , August 3, 2007.
In Memory of
Hal Ingram, N5CG.
Hal, N5CG, became a silent key July 1, 2005.
For the short time Hal was a member of the Mike & Key Club, he was quite active.
Hal participated in the Education Committee, actively Elmered others in Morse Code, and participated in Field Day activities. Outside of club activities, Hal was active in many forms of ham communications on multiple bands, including DX and satellite. He was also a strong supporter of the Coast Guard Auxilary.The club and hamdom have lost a great friend and mentor!
Previous callsign = WB7AAE
MARS callsign = NNN0AAE
For more information, check Find Grave
In Memory of
Frank Krieger, KA7QHG
Frank, KA7QHG, became a silent key May 17, 2005.
He was a long time member of the Mike & Key Club. Frank was recognized for his service in 1992 with the "Pop" Brown Award and again in 1999 with the Ken Jackson award for his contributions to the club and the ham comuunity.
The club and hamdom have lost a great friend and mentor.!
Tribute by KC7YYB.
Dear Fellow Mike and Keyers,
Today is a sad day indeed, because we have lost another faithful friend and unsung hero of our club.
There were many people in our club that benefitted from this silent servant.
Early in the mornings of our meetings, he'd trek to the local doughnut provider and bring them back for all to enjoy. He'd even pick out selections for those who expressed a liking for a special kind. Then he'd get that all important companion of early risers - coffee going in the big urn. He even started to provide Decaf for those of us who had kicked the caffine habit.
He generally always refused help getting things cleaned up and put away, until in just the last couple of years, when he finally admitted to "getting tired" and relinquished the task to others.
For years he was the stalwart fleamarket honcho of the pallet crew. He and Nils ran a tight ship and received many vendor compliments. They made a good team of workers making sure there were plenty of pallets, and they even came up with color coding for upper and lower levels.
These guys were friends, neighbors, and fellow club members who did much to further the cause of ham radio.
Frank Krieger will be missed! He was a quiet and gentle man who did many things unnoticed, such as being a liason with the Salvation Army.
He lost his wife to illness about 8 yrs ago, and it just seemed to take some of the steam out of Frank, although he still tried to keep up some semblance of normal life by going to coffee on Mon, Wed, and Fri at what used to be Sophia's and is now Galliano's. He was pretty regular with his attendance, but he didn't always stay very long. He'd often leave quietly, with some not even noticing that he'd left, to say "Good-bye".
We often take for granted our friends and companions and let them walk in and out of our lives without really taking the time to acknowlege them. Let this be a wake up call for all of us to make sure the important people in our lives, KNOW that they ARE important to us, and if they'd leave, we'd MISS them!
73,
KC7YYB
In Memory of
Lee Bertrand, KG7OW
Lee Bertrand, KG7OW, was a member of the Mike and Key Club. Lee used to be a very active member and was a regular participant out at Registration during the Flea Market. Lately, he had spent the last several years pursuing his musical interests with a group of Cajun Fiddlers.
Lee, KG7OW, became a silent key June 29, 2001.
In Memory of
Larry Logan, N7USB.
Larry was a member of the Mike & Key Club.
Larry was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and Future Farmers of America before graduating from Kent-Meridian High School in 1963. Upon graduation, Larry served in the US Air Force. Following his stint in the Air Force, Larry became a member of the US Postal Service in the Seattle area and served for 27 years before retiring last year.
Larry first got his license in 1991 and was a technician. He worked for public service events. He setup and ran several amateur radio contests for the club. Although his schedule prevented him from participating at the level he desired, he still managed to procure one of the coveted Mike & Key Station Plaques which was proudly displayed along with the rest of his awards. He gave of his time so other club members could enjoy thier hobby with others.
Larry was also president of the Puget Sound Repeater Group (PSRG) for a few years.
If you needed help Larry was willing the lend a hand. He was one to give his all to anything he did.
Larry, you will be missed by all who knew you.
Larry, N7USB, became a silent key , February 6, 2001.
In Memory of
Millard L. "Gib" Gibson, W7JIE
"Gib" was a life member of the Mike & Key Club and a club president in 1978.
Gib has been a stabalizing force in Amateur Radio in the Pacific NW for many years. Gib was a Life Member of the Mike and Key ARC, and the ARRL, and a member of the Quarter Century Wireless Association. He was extremely active in NW Public Service events.
In 1980, Gib was named Director of the IARU Region 2 Intruder Watch program. He served as ARRL Northwestern Division Vice Director in 1983 and 1984.
On the air, Gib had been an active CW QRP operator, and served as an Official Observer of Amateur Radio Frequencies.
He was an exemplary 'Elmer' to many NW hams now active and on the air.
The, now annual, Public Service Ham Radio Pamphlet was originally designed by Gib, W7JIE, and Wayne, W6DOW, in the 1980's. The 2001 Public Service Ham Radio Pamphlet was dedicated to "Gib".
Gib, you will be missed by a great number of people who regarded you as friend, mentor and Elmer!
Gib, W7JIE, became a silent key December 1, 2000.
In Memory of
Ward Weiland, W7GEY
Ward Weiland was an Elmer to many, and a good friend to all. He helped many people get their licenses, tutoring both with the code and the basics. I know that, for myself, he spent much time carefully explaining how things worked: electronically, atmospherically, and theoretically. He never pushed the test answers on me, instead choosing to help me really understand everything that was fantastic about ham radio.
He became my best friend, who encouraged me to join Mike and Key and attend ham radio meetings and events all over the area. You'd usually find me sandwiched between him and Mel "Gib" Gibson, W7JIE. Ward accompanied me to all the Mike and Key meetings, dinners, and events, and we worked together every year at the flea market. Please don't forget this wonderful man! In his quiet way, he was the best advocate of ham radio in general, and Mike and Key Amateur Radio Club in particular.
Claire Talltree, KB7GEW
Ward Weiland, became a silent key January 15, 2000.
In Memory of
Carl Edward Butler, W7PRW.
Carl received his amateur radio license in 1951 and has been an active supporter of the hobby ever since. He was a member of several local and national radio clubs including The Quarter Century Wireless group, Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL), Mike and Key Club, Columbia Basin Net, Northwest Amateur Radio Club, Washington HAM SAM's and Superstition Radio Club (Mesa, AZ). Carl was formally honored as a life member of the Mike & Key Club and a recipient of the Pop Brown Award in 1999.
Carl is remembered for quiet way he mentored and showed the way. He traveled well equipped and seemed to always have the necessary repair parts at field day or other events. Carl played an important part in the success of the Mike and Key Club and the Annual Flea Market, both organizing and supplying hard labor.
Carl was one of the finest examples of a quality human being this club has ever experienced. At the Annual Awards Banquet we, the club, got to tell a man that was always been there for this club "Thank you, Carl, for doing a great job."
Carl quietly was an example, supportive and caring, offering his wisdom and guidance to so many during his membership with this club. We can think of no one person who was more deserving than Carl to receive the Pop Brown Award, and although feeling it was long overdue in coming, we were glad to be able to see Carl receive it. You will always be our "Radar", always there with the right wrench at the right time, before we even know we needed it. You showed us the proper way to Mentor, "Don't lecture the student with words, but be an example with your actions."
You are proof that one doesn't have to be the loudest instrument in the band to be heard, and that there is great honor in being a Triangle in the parade of life. The triangle is the only instrument that never has to be re-tuned once it is created. It has been used as a symbol of balance by civilized man since time began.
You will be missed by a great number of people!
Carl, W7PRW, became a silent key June 2, 1999.
In Memory of
Ken Jackson, K7PZX
Ken was a life member of the Mike & Key Club and a recipient of the Pop Brown Award in 1971.
The "Ken Jackson Award" was created in his honor to recognize club members who continue to help other members become better amateur radio participants through thier "Elmer-ing" activities.
Ken, you will be missed by a great number of people who regarded you as friend, mentor and Elmer!
Ken, K7PZX, became a silent key February 6, 1998.
