When they call them "the greatest generation", they probably had JR in mind. He had done it all, from service two of our nation's armed forces (US Army, then the fledgling US Air Force) to raising a family, to inspiring generations of hams, JR wore many hats. A powerful force in the club, he fought the tough fight, serving three times as president, and over a decade as county RACES coordinator. Although those that fought against him found an insurmountable foe, those of us lucky enough to work with him found a friend, mentor, and leader.

JR always had a kind word to say about the club, amateur radio, and life in general. His stories painted a picture of a life shaped by both war and peacetime service, and his sense of humor was contagious. I used to enjoy our little chats at his breakfast nook, over biscuits and gravy, as he told stories of life during the great depression, his young adulthood (including his stint in ROTC that would begin a lifetime of service to his country) and stories of his ham radio experiences on three continents.

Others remember JR as the founder (and leader) of the "DJ Group", which found a niche in the airwaves "near" the 11 meter band. Although I wasn't around then, his stories (and those of others) tell the tale of an extended radio family, complete with support network and a very popular net, with recipes perhaps better read than cooked (unless you like possum)....

What I remember most is JR's never-ending patience with newcomers to the hobby. After my failed attempt to make a shortwave antenna, he called me to his home one day and presented me with one he built himself. And when my little 10 meter radio shack transceiver broke, JR presented me with a 757 multiband radio, which to this day is the cornerstone to my shack.

When JR passed away, he may have left this world, but he left quite a bit of himself here. Along with some impossibly big shoes to fill.

We'll miss you, my friend!!!

Posted 4:51 AM by Matt

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