Robert “Bob” Cheyne N4ENV and I met back in the mid 80’s while he was working as a uniformed reserve deputy sheriff for an event at Clay Hill Elementary School where my wife was then working as a librarian. I next got to know him much better at OPARC meetings after becoming a HAM.

Bob had been retired from the Navy earlier where he had risen through the ranks from seaman apprentice to Lt Commander. During his service, much in WestPac aboard ship and the west coast, but also in Memphis and other eastern locals fixing aircraft, running maintenance shops and operating his radios.

Bob was remodeling and enlarging his house constantly the past 25 years. He did most of the work himself until very recently. He did carpentry, finish carpentry, tile work and most anything else necessary to create the beautiful home he shared with wife Patricia.

Bob was a DX’r and active in many OPARC events. He was the guy who coordinated RAM watch with the Clay County Sheriff’s office, the Orange Park Mall administration and security personnel for about 20 years during the terms of three sheriffs. He managed to keep the HAMs in the good graces of everyone and got considerable recognition for his great work.

ARES was another radio activity Bob enjoyed. Especially manning the Special Needs shelter at the Horne Center on the St Johns River College campus where he was treated to hot meals prepared by the public health nurses . He also installed the antenna there which is still in use after many storms and drills.

Bob was one of the original twelve members of the Over the Hill Gang (repeater group) that still meets at Cracker Barrel. There are only four of us left now with just two living in the area. Only one has enough hair left to merit a barber.

Anyone who knew him will attest to never hearing a bad word, never observing any anger or ill temper, and being always willing to help with a smile. He was always exceptionally generous and considerate of

everyone. His navy tales were some of the best.

We will all miss him! David N4OOE