Robert V. Peterson (WA0VIK)

I met Bob in 1968 when I was 13 years old, He was a ham then and was more than willing to show me the ropes. To my knowledge, he helped dozens of people to learn about amatuer radio. His hobby was his obsession. His family and his children suffered because of his total dedication to Amateur radio and the people he was helping in the field. If it wasn't for Bob, I would be without the lucrative career I now enjoy as well as the continuing interest in Ham radio that still exists within me. Bob's example made me realize that all things should be taken in moderation, but nothing is more important than family. In later years, Bob, a diabetic, became very ill. As his health failed, so did his family. Yet he continued to spend long hours with ham radio, but almost none with his family. He soon divorced his wife and lived the rest of his life alone in a small apartment (one that would allow antennas of course). Don't get me wrong, I will always remember Bob as the most important mentor I have ever had, but he was also showing me that too much is too much! Thanks for everything Bob. I'll never forget.

Contributed by: Gary Rice (W4BVD)

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