Tom Christian, VP6TC SK
Sad news......
VP6TC/VR6TC, Tom Christian, longtime famous ham from Pitcairn Island, who probably gave most of us that "new one," has passed away, peacefully, on July 7th. Tom was diagnosed with possible Parkinson's and early signs of Alzheimer's/dementia in December, 2009, while on a family visit in New Zealand.
His wife, VP6YL/VR6YL, Betty Christian, says his health "deteriorated all too quickly," and the last few months were "cruel ones to watch such a strong, vibrant man reduced to where he was not really aware of his surroundings and then was unable to walk and swallow food or liquid."
Tom was buried July 8th in the cemetery on Pitcairn. Lack of available transportation prevented most of Tom and Betty's children making it back for the funeral. Tom was known as the "Voice of Pitcairn," was an M.B.E., Member of the British Empire, and served on the Pitcairn Island Council as the Governor's Representative for 40 years.
Mike Crownover, AD5A, is a regular contributor to AmateurRadio.com and writes from Texas, USA. Contact him at [email protected].VP6TC/VR6TC, Tom Christian, longtime famous ham from Pitcairn Island, who probably gave most of us that "new one," has passed away, peacefully, on July 7th. Tom was diagnosed with possible Parkinson's and early signs of Alzheimer's/dementia in December, 2009, while on a family visit in New Zealand.
His wife, VP6YL/VR6YL, Betty Christian, says his health "deteriorated all too quickly," and the last few months were "cruel ones to watch such a strong, vibrant man reduced to where he was not really aware of his surroundings and then was unable to walk and swallow food or liquid."
Tom was buried July 8th in the cemetery on Pitcairn. Lack of available transportation prevented most of Tom and Betty's children making it back for the funeral. Tom was known as the "Voice of Pitcairn," was an M.B.E., Member of the British Empire, and served on the Pitcairn Island Council as the Governor's Representative for 40 years.
My condolences to his family, he always seemed liked such a friendly man on the air. And my regrets to everyone on the island who called him friend or kinsman; when 2% of your nation’s entire population dies it leaves an awful hole.
It is sad to learn of Tom’s passing. I remember talking to him when I was in Rangoon,Burma from my dad’s station XZ2KN and this was in the 50s. He was a true gentleman and he sent my sister a book on the birds of Pitcairn Island. Also shared some recipes with us on how to cook fish.
My condolences to the family.
i am sorry to here of tom’s passing and there is place for us ham’s to go to in heaven. so untell we meet once more. 73’s from a friend. vk2hmv Paul
Condolences to Betty and their children in this difficult time. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and yours.