This page is dedicated to the memory of our club’s “silent keys”.
Our webmaster is compiling details on each person including photos. If club members have contributions or details to offer for any silent keys, you’re asked to please send them to VA7DBJ <@> <gmail> <dot> <com>.
Silent keys are listed in alphabetical order by call-sign. We strive to include every club member that has passed away while they were a club member in good standing. However, due to scant record-keeping at some times over the past half-century plus, there may be some that are missed for which we sincerely regret.
If you are aware of someone that passed away while they were a club member and is not on this list, please notify the club’s webmaster at the above email address.
VE7ADB James “Jim” Thompson
The club’s October, 1997 newsletter reported of Jim’s passing. The fall, 1946 and 1948 editions of the Radio Amateur Callbook, list VE7ADB- James Thompson, indicating Jim was a longtime ham operator. Jim, a Pitt Meadows resident, was one of two members that passed away in October, 1997, making it a very sad time for club members and friends of the men.
VE7AFP Hugh Gillies
Details on Hugh Gillies are still being written.
VE7AHX/VE7BAK Peter Rogers
Peter was born in London, England in 1927. He joined the British army in 1944 and became a radio operator and later a radio instructor. He served in Italy (1945-1947) and Germany (1951-1954) and got his first amateur call sign in Germany (DL2VJ). In 1956 left the military and England for Canada and in 1957 received his Canadian call sign VE7AHX.
Peter and his wife Marie had three children, two sons and a daughter.
VE7AL Mel Porritt
Melvin “Mel” Porritt was born Jan 5, 1941 and resided most of his life in Maple Ridge. He was a delivery driver for Sears and retired at age 49. He enjoyed fishing, camping, motorcycles and watching sports on TV. He was a devoted volunteer in the community. He worked every Sunday at the SPARC (Society for the Preservation of Antique Radio in Canada) museum in Coquitlam for over 20 years. Though his biggest passion was for the RCMP’s community policing programs, particularly Citizens on Patrol and he volunteered in that capacity for 27 years. Mel passed away unexpectedly on February 22, 2023 after being hospitalized for a fall.
Obituary:
Melvin Porritt has left behind his loving wife of 60 years, Diane, son Scott (Kim), son Brent (Brandy), daughter Nicole (Mike) and many grandchildren. He was a dedicated Volunteer within his community at the RCMP (COP) for 26 years, he was a member of the Ham Radio Club and a volunteer at the Radio Club Museum. A Celebration of life will be held at the Maple Ridge Legion on Friday March 3 from 1 – 3pm, 12101 – 224th Street, Maple Ridge. In lieu of flowers please donate to The Radio Museum at treasurer@sparcradio.ca
VE7AYM Louis Gregory “Greg” Johnson
Details on Greg Johnson are still being written.
VE7BBB Bob Brassington
Bob served on the club’s executive for many years. He passed away on February 28, 2002.
VE7BBP Frank Lynn Radway
Frank was born in 1932. He married Mary Faulkner in Victoria in 1966. Note: details and picture from ancestry.com and Daily Colonist newspaper; not confirmed to be the same “Frank Lynn Radway”.
VE7BN Lionel “Lyle” Doyle Howarth, CD, BA, BSW, MSW
Lyle was born in Vancouver and worked as an electrician. During WWII, he enlisted in the army working with the signal corps at the now-famed Bletchley Park where crucial signal encoding occurred. Lyle later worked as a social worker and then a teacher. He was deeply devoted to the hobby of amateur radio. Lyle passed away November 8, 2018 at the age of 92. An online memorial at burquitlamfuneralhome.ca reported the following:
Lionel (Lyle) Howarth CD,BA, BSW, MSW was born in Vancouver and grew up in New Westminster and Surrey. As a teen, Lyle worked as an electrician, then enlisted as an infantryman in WWII. Mechanically gifted, Lyle was promoted up through the ranks to a position in the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals where he serviced decoding machines in Bletchley Park, famous for the ENIGMA project.
Returning home, Lyle enrolled at UBC and obtained his Master’s Degree in Social Work. There he met his dear and devoted wife May Howarth (nee Webb), wedding her in 1949. Happily married for more than 35 years, May predeceased Lyle in the middle 1980’s. Lyle never remarried.
After graduation, Lyle worked 20 years for the Parole Board of Canada, responsible for administering the Interior, Eastern BC and Kootenays regions. Always ready with a joke and a kind word, Lyle’e career segued into teaching, where he taught briefly at Mount Royal College in Calgary and then for 20 years at Douglas College.
Teaching some of the very first classes at the opening of Douglas College, Lyle was one of those special inctructors who was attentive and quick-witted, but would also tell you the hard truth when you needed to hear it. This rare breed of honesty was Lyle’s hallmark: he always stood up for the “little guy” and more than once rattled the trees at board meetings where he refused to be “politically correct” and stood his ground.
Lyle’s early courses were on interpersonal communications, but he became a full-time Criminology Instructor and helped shape the College’s then-fledgling Criminology program.
A natural entertainer and storyteller, Lyle was always on great terms with his students, and one of his favourite activities while at Douglas College was organizing the annual student field trip to England and the UK to study the history and workings of the British criminal justice system. He loved tinkering in his electronics lab and cobbled together his own computers.
Lyle was also an avid Amateur (Ham) Radio enthusiast, a pre-internet activity and passion that allowed him to network with like-minded and interesting people, many that became his lifelong friends. I firmly believe that if you asked him as a younger man what he loved best in life, he would have said his wife May first, his radio second, and everything else third…
Lyle passed unexpectedly at the age of 92 on Nov. 8th due to complications following a heart attack, at Royal Columbian Hospital. He is survived by his niece Crystal (Dixon) and nephew Clint. It goes without saying that he will be greatly missed by friends and family. He was a true individual in an age of growing conformity. And one of the few for whom it can accurately be said, “[we] shall not look upon his like again.”
Many thanks to the great staff at Thornebridge Gardens and the support of Lyle’s many loving friends. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 a.m. Monday December 3rd at the Burquitlam Funeral Home, 625 North Rd., Coquitlam, BC.
VE7BOS Louis Stuart Duckitt
Louis in Nanaimo on December 25, 1926 and worked as a school teacher. He passed away in Maple Ridge on April 6, 2007. His obituary was published the same day in the Maple Ridge News:
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our Dad in Maple Ridge, B.C. on Good Friday, April 6th 2007, born in Nanaimo B.C. on Christmas Day, December 25th 1926. Pre- deceased by our Mom, Marion, on August 3rd 2005, after 52 years of a wonderful marriage, and by our sister Suzanne August 8th 1967.
Sadly missed and always remembered with loving thoughts by son Phillip (Shirley), daughter Gayle Garneau (Kerry), his grandchildren Mark, Heather and Jonathan Duckitt,and Jessica and Kelsey Garneau; and great grandson Logan. He enjoyed his life of Husband, Father, Papa, Great Papa and friend along with his retired school teaching career of music and academics. His strength and wisdom continued to shine through all his days of his life. No words can adequately express our sincere thanks to the wonderful caring “entire” staff at McKenney Creek Hospice, who cared for Dad and all of us in the most special way imaginable. In lieu of flowers donations to McKenney Creek Hospice in Maple Ridge or to the Cancer Society of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
VE7BXI Inge H. Ohligschlager
Details on Inge Ohlingschlager are still being written.
VE7BZH Robert “Bob” Sidney Haughton
Bob passed away the day after Christmas, 2001. He was a long time club member and was voted as a “life member” of the club. His name appeared in the 1974 edition of “Ham Radio Magazine” as the coordinator of Maple Ridge’s 1974 “Ham-Fest” and in the July 1981 edition of “73 Magazine” as coordinator of “Manifest”. He was described as someone who was always there to lend a hand, to the club or friends. In his will, Bob left all his radio equipment to the club.
VE7BZO John Ohligschlager
John’s passing was reported in the August 1988 edition of QST-Canada. He was residing in Fort Langley at the time.
VE7CCB William George MacDonald Barchard (“Bill”)
Bill was an active club member in the 1970’s. The club’s annual corn roast was held at Bill’s home in Whonnock in 1975. Photos of this event and Bill can be found in the club’s photo album on this site.
VE7CGK Gary Kriss
While researching Gary Kriss, our webmaster found a technical article authored by Gary in the June 1979 edition of 73 Magazine. The article was titled “Inexpensive Scope Tuner”. A copy of this will be saved in the club archives. Gary also appeared in a letter in the June 1981 edition of 73.
VE7CIX Esther Rachel “Ray” Haydamak
“Ray” was a club member until her passing in 1994. Born in 1918, she was in her 76th year when she died. She was buried in Maple Ridge Cemetery.
VE7CLH Larus M. Hillman
Long-time club member, Larus was born in 1917. His passing was reported in early summer of 2000. Internment took place on June 4, 2000 in Maple Ridge Cemetery.
VE7CMA Chesley Marshall Allen (“Ches”)
Ches was born on October 26, 1922 in Pugwash, Nova Scotia and moved to Maple Ridge in 1947. He loved and was very active with ham radio. He passed away August 3rd, 2014. His obituary in the Maple Ridge News was as follows:
Chesley (Ches) Marshall Allen has gone home to be with his Lord and Saviour the 3rd of August, 2014. Ches was born October 26, 1922 to William Burton Allen and Edna Isabelle (Stewart) of Pugwash, Nova Scotia. Ches was predeceased by his wife Marjorie Isabelle (Turnbull), son David Chesley Allen, granddaughter Anita and sister Elsie (Hunter). Survived by his son Dale Burton Allen, daughters Wendy Marilyn (Clairmont), Marina Colleen (Bromba), sisters Ethel (Hogg) and Bonnie Lynn (Williams), along with 8 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and one great, great grandchild. Ches worked as a lobster fisherman along with his father and in 1943, during WWll, he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, Unit 9CMU Ground Support Crew. In 1947 he moved his wife and son to Maple Ridge, British Columbia where he remained for 60 plus years. He also assisted in building the first steel runway in Masset, Queen Charolette Island, BC. and he worked for the Pacific Stage Lines, owned and operated a local fish retail business and finally retired after working as a Guard for the Maple Ridge RCMP. He was a lover and lifetime member of the Ham Radio Association and was proficient in Morse Code and volunteered in Search and Rescue operations in the Maple Ridge area. He was a very talented guitarist, a man quick to laugh and tell a joke, a loving brother, father and grandfather, good friend and will be greatly missed. At Ches’ request there will be no funeral service, only a private family gathering. Condolences may be sent to www.mapleridgefuneral.ca
VE7CMP John Alexander Marshall
Club member John Marshall passed away in the spring of 2009. It was reported by the Health & Welfare committee at the February 2009 club meeting that John was in the palliative care ward of Maple Ridge hospital. A minute of silence was held at the club meeting on March 3, 2009 in John’s honour. A memorial service was held March 7th, 2009 at Hammond Elementary school to remember John.
VE7CXJ Glenn Jared Betts
The Delta Amateur Radio Society’s history prominently mentions Glenn. It reads:
Subsequently an inaugural meeting of some 22 interested Hams met at the Tsawwassen Jr. Secondary School at 8 p.m. on October 8, 1980 under the chairmanship of Glen Betts (VE7CXJ). (Glen was a United Church Minister in Ladner.) Discussion centered about the form that subsequent meetings should take and where they should be held. The meeting ended up with a bunch of do’s and don’ts for later meetings. This Assembly did not think it prudent to formally elect a slate of officers and it was agreed on that four persons should be appointed to act as an interim executive for a period of three months. Selected were: …Glen Betts VE7CXJ (Ladner).
VE7CVN Nick Sameon Tarasiuk
Details on Nick Tarasiuk are still being written.
VE7DBN Alex Robinson
Details on Alex Robinson are still being written.
VE7EQ Len Cuddeford
Len was a military veteran, serving in the Canadian army. During overseas service during WWII, Len met what would later become his wife, Margaret, at a dance. Margaret was serving in the Royal Navy maintaining aircraft at the time. After the wary, Len returned to British Columbia with Margaret, and they settled in Kelowna to start a family. They later relocated to West Vancouver in 1958 and to Port Coquitlam in 1964. He and Margaret had three children. In addition to ham radio, Len was active in gardening. In 1990, he established the PoCo Garden Club whose mission is to encourage the beautification of Port Coquitlam by encouraging residents to plant flowers. That club and its newsletter “The Sprout” live on to this day, a lovely legacy to Len. Len passed away in 1993 and the same year, Margaret planted a tree in tree in Len’s memory in Coquitlam. Margaret also passed away on September 29, 2008.
VE7EWE Juan Zuccolo
Details on Juan Zuccolo are still being written.
VE7FFM Bill Yourk
The club’s October, 1997 newsletter reported of Bill’s passing. Bill was one of two members that passed that month, making it a very sad time for club members and friends of the men.
VE7FKP Frank Welcome McCrady
Details on Frank McCrady are still being written.
VE7HAM Marty Martin
Born in Timmins Ontario, Marty peacefully passed away in his 70th year on October 5th. 2007 at
Mission Memorial Hospital. Marty will now be reunited with his beloved predeceased
parents Barbara and William. He will be deeply missed by his best friend, his rock and
wife of 49 years Gloria, his sons Terry and David; beautiful grandchildren Elora, Hailly
and William; and extended family and friends.
Marty joined the Canadian Air Force as a young man and was stationed in Holberg, Comox, Vancouver and Senneterre PQ. A tragic car crash took away his mobility in 1962, but didn’t touch his spirit, anyone that had the pleasure to call him friend will attest to grand character, always happiest surrounded by those he loved. Marty was active in Stayner Ontario with the Lions club and became interested in amateur radio, locally he was member of the Maple Ridge ARC and the Canadian Legion.
He enjoyed visiting his second home and extended family at the Mission Spring Restaurant and keeping in touch with friends via his computer. Marty’s family gives heartfelt thanks to the Seventh Avenue Heath Center and MMH second floor nursing staff.
VE7HER Bernice Donna MacDonald
Club member Bernice had a unique and sought-after callsign, so appropriate for a female ham radio operator (VE7HER). Just as unique is that Bernice’s husband Kenneth Charles, also a ham, has callsign VE7HIM. VE7-HIM and HER, a such great call signs for a ham radio couple!
Bernice passed away in June of 2015, while living in the Lone Butte area of British Columbia. She was survived by her soulmate Kenneth, to whom she was married for 53 years. She and Kenneth had five children. A celebration of Bernice’s life took place at the Lone Butte Community Hall on Sept 19, 2015. Bernice’s obituary in the 100 Mile House newspaper read:
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mom, nanny, and great?nanny.
Bernice will be lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Kenneth MacDonald, of 53 years who was her soul mate, best friend and with whom she shared many great adventures. Warm, caring and servant hearted, Mom was all about taking care of her family. With a smile for everyone she met and her down to earth, playful personality, she made friends easily and always enjoyed a good laugh. Mom loved and cherished animals and loved spending endless hours working in her yard on a hot, sunny day.
She leaves a hole in the hearts of her children Barbie (Steve), Rose (John), Mary Ann (Mark), Kenny (April), Donna (Rob); and in the hearts of her grandchildren Charlie, Justin (Trina), Rachelle, Trevor, Mackenzie, Zachary, Emily, Michael, Jordan, and L.J; and her great granddaughter Serenity. As she will also be missed by her many friends and relatives.
Good bye to our little hummingbird, our small wonder, we will see you again.
VE7HI Floyd Beardsell
Born in Woodstock, Ontario on April 27, 1927, Floyd later moved to the Maple Ridge area where he would later become a key figure in the history of the Maple Ridge Amateur Radio Club. Floyd was one of the founding members of the club, and later helped establish the club’s first repeater and the hamfest.
Floyd passed away January 4, 2014, survived by his wife Evelyn and 2 children. A major club award was posthumously named in his honor to recognize all that he did to establish and grow the club to what it is today.
Floyd’s obituary in the Vancouver Sun read as follows:
BEARDSELL, Floyd
Born April 27, 1927 in Woodstock Ontario. It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Floyd Beardsell on Saturday, January 4, 2014 at the age of 86 years. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Evelyn of 61 years, 2 children, daughter Susan (Gary) Jones of Edmonton, Ab, Nelson Beardsell (Sandy) of Rothesay, NB, 3 grandchildren, Michel Bard (Heidi) of Edmonton, Ab.,Carl Beardsell and Mary Quitte of Saint John, New Brunswick.,5 great grandchildren plus several nieces, nephews and cousins.The family would like to thank the Abbotsford Hospital staff for their outstanding care they showed to Floyd and especially to his Family Doctor, Dr B. Morgan for his care throughout the years. In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke foundation. A memorial tea will be held in his honour at the Pioneer Park Community hall, Saturday, January 11, 2014 at 2 pm in Aldergrove, B.C.
VE7GJK Gerald Joseph Kilian Fix
Gerald was born November 13th, 1958 and was taken from us far too young on February 26, 2023 after a two year battle with cancer. Gerald was still working for the BC Government and was in his 16th year there when he passed. He spent much of his radio time on the VHF/UHF side, participating in local nets especially the Rainbow Country Net. Gerald was known as a quiet club member, but jovial and liked by all. He was quite open about his less than perfect soldering skills and any club project involving Gerald and soldering was bound to be full of fun and laughter. He often joined the club for Thursday coffee sessions and many club members enjoyed his company there.
Obituary:
Passed away after a two-year battle with cancer with family at his side. Survived by loving wife Eloise; daughter Felicia, son Bradley; grandchildren Kilian and Arabella; Sister Karen (Richard), brother Mike (Marjorie), brother-in-law George (Sandra); plus, many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends. Gerald worked for the BC Government for 16 years and loved his role as a training coordinator and interacting with new hires.
Gerald enjoyed being a member of the Maple Ridge Ham Radio Club and prior to that devoted much time to the RCMP Auxiliary Constable program. Funeral service March 18th at Maple Ridge Christian Life Assembly at 11756 – 232 Street Maple Ridge, BC. (time TBA)
VE7HMQ/VA7MR Michael Bernhard Rossner (“Mike”)
Mike was a former president of the MRARC. Additonal details on Miek Rossner are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7HNN Douglas R. King (“Doug”)
Details on Doug King are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7HYW Fred Hayward
The September 2001 club newsletter reported that Fred worked hard to get his Morse certification and after doing so, made many HF contacts around the world. A celebration of life party was held in Fred’s honor on Saturday the 15th of August. The newsletter reported a great tribute to a very nice guy who will be missed by all.
VE7HX Ernie Larocque
Details on Ernie Larocque are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7IEB John Braun
Details on John Braun are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7IIS Bob Satti
Details on Bob Satti are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7IKP Morris Letnick
Details on Morris Letnick are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7ITV Edwin “Ed” Huber
ve7i
VE7IYL Doreen Sparling
Doreen passed away February 18, 2008 in Royal Columbian Hospital. The club observed a minute of silence on 4th of March at the monthly meeting in remembrance of Doreen.
Doreen was a regular participant in the Vancouver 2 metre YL nets and IRLP International YL Net. She was also a long time member of CLARA, the Canadian Ladies Amateur Radio Association and acted as the British Columbia coordinator. She often discussed on the nets her keen devotion to knitting toques and scarfs for her church’s “Aid to Seamen” effort. She also loved canning, jam-making and gardening.
Doreen was a net controller from time to time during the Westcoast 2 metre YL net in the Lower Mainland.
Doreen was survived by her companion Lyle Howarth (VE7BN) and the club sent cards of condolence to Lyle and her family.
VE7KVT – Nigel Cyril Arthur Smith-Gander
Club member Nigel Smith-Gander was born April 11, 1936 in Alberta, later living in England. When World War II broke out, the family moved back to Canada, residing in Burnaby. Nigel became an Electrical Engineer in 1959, working with BC Telephone Company. In 1970, he began working with BC Hydro, where he worked for 25 years as a tele-control engineer. He and his wife Bernadette “Bernie” moved to Maple Ridge in 1995. Once there he joined MRARC and was active in many other community and volunteer groups. Nigel passed away on April 3, 2015.
An online memorial page at mapleridgefunderal.ca provides many details of Nigel’s storied life and interests. That page reads:
Nigel Cyril Arthur Smith-Gander
April 11, 1936 – April 3, 2015
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Nigel Cyril Arthur Smith-Gander. He was much loved by Bernadette, his wife of 56 years, Son Anthony, Daughter Pamela (Greg) and Grandson Stephen. Nigel was pre-deceased by his parents Gordon and Florence Smith-Gander.
Nigel was born on Easter Saturday in Strome, Alberta and moved with his family to England until the outbreak of World War II. The family moved back to Canada and settled in Burnaby, BC. After graduating from UBC in 1959 with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Nigel began his career with the BC Telephone Company and then, in 1970, joined BC Hydro. Nigel worked as a tele-control engineer for 25 years for BC Hydro and ended his career there in the position of Manager of Control, Communications and Planning. Nigel was a distinguished member of many professional organizations, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists.
Nigel was also an avid aviator and held a private pilot’s license. He was very involved with the Recreational Aircraft Association chapter 85 out of Delta Airpark in Ladner BC. Nigel built his own airplane and later owned a factory built Cessna 150 airplane for many years.
After retiring from work in 1995 he moved to Maple Ridge with Bernie to her family farm. In Maple Ridge Nigel became involved with Community Policing, Citizens on Patrol and the Maple Ridge Board of Variance. Nigel was also a member of Maple Ridge Ham Radio club.
Nigel’s interests were wide-ranging and diverse. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and was truly gifted with the ability to fix almost any device. His generosity, sincerity and honesty won him a vast array of friends, from all walks of life. He was a graceful leader, a truly gifted teacher and an inspiration to more people than he will ever know.
Animals loved and trusted him. Nigel found sanctuary in the cathedrals of Nature, preferring the majesty and beauty of a forest to the confines of the indoors.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held April 18, 2015 at 10:30 AM at St. Patrick’s Parish 22561 121 Street Maple Ridge, BC. Celebration of Life and Reception to follow immediately after in the school gym.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Iron Horse Youth Safe House, c/o the Alouette Home Start Society.
VE7MAJ James Arthur Musson “Art”
Art was born in Melita, Manitoba on November 4, 1947 and two weeks later the family moved to Shoal Lake, Ma. Aftter high school, Art moved to Port Coquitlam to live with his grandfather. While there, Art met the Mormon Missionaries and in July of 1969 was baptized into the church. It was there that Art met Berit. On his birthday in 1970, Berit bought him a cake and a bottle of aftershave. He was so impressed that someone remembered his birthday, that he asked her out. Their first date was to A&W and a year later they were engaged. Art himself became a missionary and was sent to serve in the Australian Melbourne South Mission. Following his mission, Art returned to Port Coquitlam and worked for a computer company then switched to the accounting department at Maple Ridge Municipal Hall.
Art and Berit had their first child, Dawn, in November 1975. Four boys would follow over the next eight years (Michael in 1977, Richard in 1979, Marc in 1981, Matthew in 1983).
After working a few years at Maple Ridge Muncicipal Hall, Art was offered a job a manager’s position at Elgin Medical Clinic in Port Coquitam and a short time later received his certificate in Registered Industrial Accounting. Shortly after that, the family moved to their home on 209th street where they’d stay for 32 years. Art became working for himself, setting up an accounting practice at home.
Art was active in youth programs as a beaver, cub and scout leader until his death. He enjoyed hiking many local mountains with scouts and with family. He was also active in the church community, teaching seminary, gospel doctrine teacher, high council member, stake clerk, counselor to the stake president, bishop’s counselor and bishop. Each year for Scouting’s “Jamboree on the Air” Art would invite the troop to his home to participate in the event.
Art was also a talented writer and painter and was commissioned to paint murals for the church, one of which took 1.5 years to complete. He also enjoyed gardening, cooking and making soups and relishes.
Art was active in the Maple Ridge Amateur Radio Club, including serving as treasurer on the club executive. He passed away suddenly on September 29, 2015.
VE7MNC Richard James “Rich” McConnell
The club was saddened to learn of the passing of club member and friend, Rich McConnell on November 10, 2004, just a month after his 50th birthday. Many club members attended the celebration of Rich’s life on November 19, 2004.
VE7MRH Alan Sherlaw
Details on Alan Sherlaw are still being complied and written. If you are able to contribute information, please contact the club’s webmaster.
VE7NPN/VE7FGQ Gordon Morrison McCrady “Gord”
Club member Gord was married to his loving wife Lois in 1966. They moved to British Columbia in the 1960’s and celebrated 40 years together in 2006. Lois was also active in amateur radio. Together, they created a business (Ship-Rad Services) installing and maintaining medical imaging systems on cruise ships. Gord passed away in Vancouver in April, 2006. His obituary was featured in the Vancouver Sun on May 1, 2006.
VE7TAG Terrance Alexander Goodwin “Terry”
Club member Terry Goodwin passed away on January 31, 2017 at the age of 71. His obituary was featured in the January 31st edition of the Maple Ridge News. It read as follows:
GOODWIN, Terrance Alexander passed away in Maple Ridge on January 31st at the age of 71. Terry is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Marilyn And their 3 children and 6 grandchildren. Terry was born on July 24th 1945 in Calgary Alberta to Ronald and Fern Goodwin. Terry and Marilyn married in 1966 They later moved to B.C. and settled in Vancouver’s lower mainland. As a member of the Teamsters Union local 31 he had a long career driving from oil fields to ice fields and millions of miles between Alaska and Mexico. Terry was an avid ham radio enthusiast with the call signs of VE7 TAG, and enjoyed many meetings at the A&W. A celebration of his life will be at 2 pm. March 25th, 2017 at St. John the Divine Anglican Church, 21299 River Road, Maple Ridge.
VE7TE Nick James Gaudiuso
Club member Nick Gaudiuso passed away July 13, 2021. He joined the club in 1985 and held the position of president for several two year terms. He received the club’s highest honour, the Floyd Beardsell Award and was made a life member for his service. The following article appeared on the club’s website the day after his passing:
The club is deeply saddened by news last night (July 13th) that our fellow club member Nick Gaudiuso (VE7TE) passed away that morning. Nick had recently suffered from a battle with cancer.
For many years, Nick was the main organizer of the club’s top fundraiser, the twice-yearly swap meet. He was the point of contact with all those purchasing tables, and usually handed out prizes to all winners. His energy was very apparent in the planning of that event. Anyone attending a club swap meet will probably know him as he was often the face of them. Nick also spent considerable time maintaining the club’s repeaters.
Several years ago, Nick was awarded with a plaque recognizing his 30 years of dedicated service to the club. He was also voted a life member of the club, further recognizing his dedication. In the hours following notification of his passing, many club members gave moving statements on his character:
“Nick was a respected and cherished member of our club. An elmer to both prospective and seasoned hams alike, active with both the repeater coordination council and provincial emergency program, and key to countless, successful swap meets, Nick was known throughout the hobby far and wide. His sage advice and warm smile will be dearly missed. I’m truly honoured to have known and called Nick a friend”
“I met Nick on our first year here in Canada and he was my examiner when I took my exam back in 2019. He was also the one who introduced me to the group. So sorry to hear of his passing. Condolences and prayers to the family and may he rest in peace.”
“Nick was a respected long term club member and my friend. He will be missed.”
“Nick was a fine fellow. Always with a welcoming smile and a kind word to share. He will be missed.”
The club’s president and net control for the weekly 2-meter net dedicated the weekly net on July 14th to the memory of Nick Gaudiuso. Those checking-in were invited to make any comments they wished on Nick. Many kind words were said including how friendly and welcoming he was to new members. How he was a friend to many. And especially on his dedication and hard work over many years to the club’s operations. There is no doubt that he leaves a large void to be filled. Club members are welcome to send any additional thoughts, condolences or memories of Nick to the club’s webmaster. The club’s president also advised the BC Public Service net on Wednesday evening and the BCPS Net held one minute of silence in Nick’s honour..
Nick’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, July 21st, 11 A.M. at St. Luke’s Parish, 20285 Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge, BC.
The club wishes to extend our sympathies to Nick’s family and sincerely thank him for his many years of tremendous service to the club. It is a sentiment that the ham radio community will probably loudly echo. 73 to you, Nick, you will be sorely missed.
In honour of Nick, the club’s website was blacked out with an “in memorium” main page for two weeks. Also, the day after the club learned of his passing, club members met outside the clubhouse and toasted his memory with Nick’s drink of choice, a red wine. Italian, of course. Nick was a fine man and will be missed dearly.
VE7TWI Ronald Campbell Chatwin
Ron was born May 31, 1931 and passed away January 8, 2022. He lived in Maple Ridge his entire life and worked for School District 42 as a locksmith. He loved the outdoors, fishing and camping. Service details are not yet available. Ron’s obituary in the Maple Ridge News provided the following:
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Ron Chatwin on Saturday January 8th, 2022. Survived by his partner Elizabeth Polacek, his children John (Kim), Darwin, Lisa (Fred) , Lori (Garry), Don (Kris) and stepson Mike (Lisa). Ten grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.
Ron lived in Maple Ridge his entire life, he worked for School District 42 as a locksmith and was a long time member of the Maple Ridge Lapidary Club and the Maple Ridge Ham Radio Club. He was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. Ron loved nothing more than sitting with his family in front of a fire by a lake with his Camper and his Quad ready for the next days adventure.
Dad, you were our own Mr. Gadget, we have missed the long talks about the latest phone, radio and flashlight around the table. Rest in Peace.
We would like to thank the staff of Holyrood for the care they give to all their residents.
A Celebration of life will be organized in the near future.
VE7VYE Erwin Emil Bublitz
Erwin was born March 24, 1934 in Ortelsburg, East Prussia. He was the oldest son of seven siblings and born into difficult times. He was separated from his family during WW2 and he spent 2.5 years in an orphanage. He was miraculously reunited with his family following the war and they settled in Stuttgart, Germany. There, at the age of 15, he became an apprentice cabinetmaker and at the age of 20, became a journeyman and soon after emigrated to Canada.
He intially settled in Regina, but found the winters too cold and moved to teh west coast where he met his Elli, the woman with whom he would spend the next 50 years.
Erwin first gained employment as a shipbuilder, then cabinetmaker and eventually a cabinetmaking instructor at BCIT where he spent 23 years teaching.
Erwin loved to sing and was active in his church in many capacities. His hobbies, aside from amateur radio, included traveling, cycling, hiking, skiing, gardening and of course, his love for the sea and sailing. Perhaps his proudest accomplishment was building his sailboat, the “Island Swan”. He and Elli spent many summers aboard it, cruising the Gulf Islands.
Erin passed away peacefully on September 21, 2007 after a long battle with cancer. He had 3 children, 7 granddaughters and 1 grandson.
VE7XQ Anthony Murton Craig “Tony”
The summer and fall, 1946 editions of “Radio Amateur Callbook” each show a listing for VE7XQ (Anthony Murton Craig), indicating a long history of radio operation.
Tony’s obituary was published in the Vancouver Sun on September 12, 2007. Many online tributes from fellow hams clearly indicate that Tony was very influential and a role model to many other hams.
VE7YJ David Phillip Bennett “Dave”
Club member Dave passed away February 19, 2018. Born June 18, 1942, Dave and his wife Mia lived in Langley. His obituary was featured in the Feb 19th edition of Langley Advance Times, reading as follows:
Dearly missed by his wife Mia, daughter Amy (Paul), Grandson Tommy, Sister Rosemary, and his many friends and relatives.
Dave served for many years with the Langley Arts Council, the Friends of the Library, and was a longtime member of the Langley Camera Club. He was very actively involved with the Amateur Radio Community.
An informal gathering to celebrate Dave’s life will be held at Douglas Hall, 20550 Douglas Crescent, Langley, on June 24th, 2-4 pm.
VE7YMM Markham “Mark” Joseph Mellish
Mark passed away on Monday, January, 18th, 2021 succumbing to complications from Corticobasal Degeneration, a rare disease.
Mark joined the Maple Ridge Amateur Radio Club in 1998. He was an avid CW operator, in fact it was almost exclusively his mode of operation. In 2009 the club assisted Mark with the installation of a large tower in his yard in Whonnock, some photos of which appear below and in the site’s photo album. Atop that tower Mark added a Steppir beam antenna. With a cubical quad on another tower, and a further 2m/70cm tower, Mark’s setup was the envy of many ham operators. Mark also enjoyed building his own radios, and had a preference for Elecraft.
For many years, Mark hosted the club’s annual Field Day activities on his two acre property. In 2016, Mark was voted as a permanent honorary MRARC member due to his dedication to the club. Club members that knew Mark well said that he was a perfectionist; whatever he did, he did absolutely right.
VE7YSQ Susan Jane Richardet
Club member Susan Richardet passed away on April 21, 2009 just prior to her 53rd birthday.