Gary Watson K6PDL, SK

Our good friend Gary, K6PDL, died peacefully at home Wednesday around 11:00 AM, attended by his wife Maggie, K6ACT, and long-time friend Roberta, AG6KN.

Gary was dedicated to ARES and the Santa Cruz ham radio community. He served for many years as DEC and ADEC, as well as Deputy County Clerk processing DSW applicants.  He visited the Loft Coffee group often and was happy to attend 3 weeks ago with the assistance of his friend John, N6QX. Active on HF digital as well as VHF, Gary was proud to achieve both Worked-All-States and DXCC from his challenging antenna location on Hester Creek. He volunteered for many years at the County Emergency Operations Center where he maintained the DSW database and swore in new members. His quiet, behind the scenes reliability enhanced Santa Cruz ham radio for us all. At the request of Gary and Maggie, some of Gary’s beloved ham gear will be offered at the K6BJ Swap Meet this Saturday morning. It was Gary’s wish that his equipment continue to provide fun and help our community in emergencies..All of us who knew Gary well were enriched. We miss him.