ARROW Communications Association

To the most amazing HAMsters in the world,

Along with some of you, Mark’s family believed that he was very quiet, to himself and alone. For the rest of us, we got to know this amazing man who was having the time of his life with amateur radio. Mark and I were in the process of sharing the love we had for one another with the rest of you and our families. Mark was supposed to meet my family that Friday and I was supposed to meet part of his Saturday and the rest the following weekend. As you all know, I met his parents about 2:30 am in the ER and the rest of his family in the coming days.

At the breakfast, when I introduced you to Mark’s family and you all had a chance to introduce yourselves, I was expecting the typical “my name is, my call-sign is” and you guys gave so much more than I ever could have asked for. Each of you who could, shared a special remembrance of Mark that was not only touching to me, but deeply moving and profound for Mark’s family. They got a chance to see first hand what Mark and I were about to share with them. You all know how much this meant to me, but more specifically, I wanted to share with you what this meant for Mark’s family in their healing process, the closure they so desperately needed and the comfort you brought them. A comfort only a HAMster could bring.

At the memorial service they were overwhelmed to see so many people, overflowing up the stairs and into the entryway. Downstairs, there were more HAMs than family members. Standing next to Gary and Sarah, Mark’s brother and sister, I was pointing out for her who everyone was. HAM, HAM, family, family, HAM, HAM, HAM, HAM, family, HAM, HAM, HAM, HAM. hihi

I wish there were words to express, not only for me, but specifically for Mark’s family, the difference you made and the comfort you brought to them during such a tragic loss in their lives. The support you gave all of us, whether you were at the hospital with us, emailing me or Steve or at the service and even now as we continue to recover from this unexpected loss, brought them a comfort they never would have known if it weren’t for who you are and for what you did so naturally. There is no way I could ever say thanks enough that could compare to what you gave Mark’s family. I just want you to know that aside from Mark, you gave them the most precious gift in realizing for them that he was not alone, that he was happy and how blessed he was to be surrounded by some of the best friends a man could ask for. For that, I know Mark can rest in peace and I will forever be grateful for all of you.

Michelle kd8gwx