[ADXA] Mike (W9MDB) now SK

[Steven Rutledge]

Mike, as well as George, have helped me many times with glitches 
regarding WSJT-X.  I knew Mike had ALS but didn't realize it was this 
far along.  He was always willing to lend a hand to other amateurs 
having issues with WSJT-X.  He will be missed.

Steve, N4JQQ

On 3/30/2025 10:02 AM, WB5JJJ wrote:
> You may not know, but Mike was instrumental in keeping the "hamlib" 
> database, that is used in many digital communications programs, up to 
> date - literally sometimes daily.
>
> Clipped ---------------------------
> Sad to report that Mike, W9MDB has passed. Mike helped countless hams 
> (including myself) by writing software, contributing to WSJT and 
> taking time to individually help others on their setup. Information 
> below is from Eric, WA1SXK.
>
> Obituary for Michael (Mike) Black, W9MDB, of Quincy, Illinois
> It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael (Mike) 
> Black, W9MDB (1955–2025). A dedicated and experienced ham operator, 
> Mike made a lasting impact on countless fellow enthusiasts through his 
> boundless enthusiasm, technical expertise, and willingness to help 
> anyone in need.
>
> Mike served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, retiring as 
> an E-7 Scientific Measurements Supervisor. After his military career, 
> he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics, 
> followed by a master’s degree in information assurance.
> In 2013, while working on high-powered rocket projects with his 
> grandson, Mike realized he needed an FCC license to operate a GPS 
> transmitter on the rocket. Determined to move forward, he quickly 
> obtained his amateur radio license—passing all three exams in just a 
> few months. The hobby proved to be an excellent fit, combining his 
> background in hardware, software, and geophysical sciences with a 
> newly sparked passion for radio.
>
> Mike made his first contribution to the Hamlib project in 2014 and 
> took over its leadership in 2015. Hamlib, which provides radio control 
> libraries used by over 20 different amateur radio programs—including 
> WSJTX, JTDX, FLDigi, and GPredict—benefited greatly from his 
> meticulous dedication and technical skill. He also contributed 
> extensively to these programs themselves, as well as FLRig.
>
> One of Mike’s notable achievements in the FT8 community was addressing 
> the issue of unwanted audio harmonics when FT8 was first introduced. 
> Working closely with Eric (WA1SXK), Mike co-developed a procedure that 
> worked with virtually any radio to properly set up the audio chain and 
> eliminate harmonic interference. Over the course of three years, they 
> reached out personally to many operators causing these harmonics, 
> sharing their document and guiding them to a cleaner signal. Today, 
> harmonic issues in FT8 have been reduced to near non-existence—an 
> enduring testament to Mike’s commitment and expertise.
>
> In 1997, Mike married his high school sweetheart, Toni, 25 years after 
> they first met. They enjoyed a loving life together until ALS slowly 
> took its toll. Despite this challenge, Mike continued to show 
> unwavering determination, love, and kindness to the very end.
>
> Mike leaves behind a legacy of service, innovation, and friendship in 
> the amateur radio community—his silent key, W9MDB, will be sorely missed.
>
> Condolences may be sent to:
> Toni Black
> 4601 Trinity Lakes Dr.
> Quincy, IL 62305-4404
> --------------
>
>
> 73's
> George - WB5JJJ
> HoIP - 100105
> Cell - 479.857.7737
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> ADXA mailing list
> Home:http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/adxa
> Help:http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post:mailto:ADXA at mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by:http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list:http://www.qsl.net/donate.html 
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://mailman.qth.net/pipermail/adxa/attachments/20250330/32ffe599/attachment-0001.html>