[Elecraft] W6MMA SK

[Wayne Burdick]

Hi Dave,

Vern was a friend of mine as well, going back to the early Norcal QRP Club days. We'd all sit around at the California Burger in Pleasanton, CA, comparing home-brew radios while eating ostrich and buffalo specials along with mountains of fries. In hindsight, these probably contributed to his downfall. 

He was always into compact antennas for portable or mobile use. At club meetings he would weave impassioned tales of 5-watt SSB DX QSOs using his latest home-brewed antennas. Vern was king of the hill, with a stentorian voice that carried across continents, as well as across the room. 

Norcal members inspired him to create an ever-expanding line of antennas, helping build his business. This culminating in multi-element yagis that would disappear into his trademark slender black carrying bags. Not long ago he created a miniature version of his classic mobile whip that was far more compact, targeted at the KX3 and similar small rigs.

Vern's enthusiasm was boundless, and his dreams mostly realized. We should all be so fortunate.

73,
Wayne
N6KR


>> Hi All,
>> 
>> It is with the deepest of regret that I am passing on the news that Vern Wright, W6MMA, passed away yesterday.  Vern, and his wife June, are very dear friends, and I can't begin to express how sad it makes me to bring news like this to the rest of you.  I suppose this might not be the best place to convey this, but I do know Vern had a wealth of good friends among this group.
>> 
>> Vern's health has not been very good in recent years, but it was probably made worse by a lot of stress he has had to endure in recent years.  Only a few short weeks ago he suffered an episode with his heart (not his first!), and another, even more recent episode, is probably what was ultimately fatal.
>> 
>> Vern was one of the most generous people I have ever known.  He continually supported many of the QRP activities, and never passed up an opportunity to supply very nice door prizes, etc.  Being a retired dentist, Vern was very good with his hands.  If anyone has seen some of the things he constructed (not just antennas but radios too!), you know how highly skilled he was. Many years back he began tinkering with antennas, mostly for portable use, and that led to the formation of SuperAntennas.  His model MP-1 is a classic, but there were numerous variations of that, including a baby 12 V. screwdriver version.  He made several large screwdriver antennas as well, and I happen to have one!  Anyway, the list is pretty long, and each item he created was very well made.
>> 
>> Ham radio, and particularly the QRP community, has lost one of its very best friends.  I know I have!
>> 
>> Dave W7AQK