We remember with respect and gratitude the members and friends of the Ventura County Amateur Radio Club (K6MEP) who have become Silent Keys. Their voices, wisdom, and service to our community and the amateur radio hobby will continue to inspire us.
73 — SK
John Gartman, W6JPG (SK May 23, 2026)
Longtime Treasurer, Ventura County Amateur Radio Club
John served our club faithfully for many years as Treasurer, handling duties with care, dedication, and quiet reliability. He was a valued member of our ham radio community and a man who loved his family deeply. John returned home with honors. As his wife lovingly shared:
“My wonderful husband John returned home with honors this morning.
Thank you to all who’ve been with us during this horrible time.
He loved us well and will always be with us.”
My wonderful husband John returned home with honors this morning…” — Peggy Gartman
Rest easy, John. 73, old friend — you are now Silent Key.
Rod Austin, KA6GSU (SK April 14, 2026) Longtime Board Member and President
Roderick M. Austin was a dedicated President from 2003 to 2007 and a Board Member from 2007 to 2019 as well as an active participant in club activities for many years. He contributed significantly to the Ventura County Amateur Radio Club and the broader ham community through his involvement and support. His steady presence and service will be remembered by all who knew him on the air and at club events.
To learn more about Rod please see our past Keyer issues and announcements.
Rest in peace, Rod. Your signal may be silent, but your contributions endure.
Zak Cohen, N6PK (SK January 27, 2026) Navy Veteran, Mentor, and Community Builder
Born in January 1942 and licensed in 1961 during his Navy service, Zak was a quiet giant in our Amateur Radio family. A Combat Navy Veteran (Vietnam era, retired as Chief Petty Officer), he mentored countless new hams with patience and encouragement. He served in Auxiliary Communications (ACS) for over 16 years, acted as Emergency Coordinator and Section Training Manager, and was a two-term President of the Conejo Valley Amateur Radio Club. Zak was a member of K6MEP and generously provided county updates during meetings. His calm voice reassured many on emergency nets.
Read the full heartfelt farewell: ZACHARY (Zak) Cohen, N6PK — A Heartfelt Farewell Zak’s legacy lives in the operators he steadied and the community he strengthened.
Godspeed, N6PK. 73 and SK.
