Hello to all…
I was informed by K1HRV-Dave Doe last week on the passing of W1ZSA-Roger Turner, longtime town of Walpole EMA Director, and one of the critical pillars and creator of Norfolk County ARES-SKYWARN passed away. I consider Roger one of the originals along with folks like Bob Mims-WA1OEZ, Terry Stader-KA8SCP, Jeff Arnold-K1EMS and Mike Nasleroad-N1EVH that helped propel SKYWARN in the Eastern Massachusetts section to the next level and created a strong group of Amateurs focused on ARES, SKYWARN and public service. Roger was always the first to offer town facilities for SKYWARN training, ARES Workshops and anything else we would like to do for the section free of charge. He offered his facilities as backup resources for the Boston Marathon for many years. I consider Roger a longtime mentor and friend. I feel a bit older and am very saddened hearing this news this evening.
Many Amateur Operators credit Roger for getting them involved in Amateur Radio and Emergency Management. Kelvin Mahoney-K1FPP said “Rest In Peace Roger Turner. Roger was one of the main factors of why I took an interest in the Emergency Management and communications field. My first introduction to emergency management was a CERT class that I took when I was 16 taught by him. I will be forever grateful! Roger did so much for the town of Walpole and will be greatly missed.”
W1JFR-John Robinson said “Roger was a great friend, mentor, and amateur radio “Elmer”. His encouragement helped me shift careers in my 40s and our conversations about everything and anything Walpole, communications, or emergency management could last for hours. Rest easy, Roger.”
A “last call” for Roger-W1ZSA was done on various sector RACES Nets in Eastern Massachusetts and on the Eastern Massachusetts ARES Net. The script used for the last call can be seen at the following link: https://ema.arrl.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Roger_W1ZSA_Tribute_ARES_RACES_Nets.pdf
Roger’s obituary and visiting hours are public and the visiting hour details can be seen at the following link: https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/bostonglobe/obituary.aspx?n=roger-f-turner&pid=198960744
Rest in Peace, Roger-W1ZSA, we will take it from here!
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert Macedo (KD1CY)
ARES SKYWARN Coordinator
Eastern Massachusetts ARES Section Emergency Coordinator
Home Phone #: (508) 994-1875 (After 6 PM)
Home/Data #: (508) 997-4503 (After 6 PM)
Work Phone #: 508-346-2929 (8 AM-5 PM)
Email Address: rmacedo@rcn.com
http://ares.ema.arrl.org
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