The 147.16 repeater site on 92^nd Street hill located six miles south of Grand Rapids

The Independent Repeater Association maintains a network of 2-meter repeaters covering western Michigan from the Indiana border to the upper peninsula. Everyone is welcome to use and enjoy the linked-repeater system.

John Robert Rittenhouse -WB8VOJ, aged 50, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2009 after a courageous battle with colon cancer. Son of Jerry (K8SO) & Jane Rittenhouse. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Silvia Rittenhouse; sons, David – KB8YNC (Danielle) Rittenhouse, Andrejs (Tabitha) Rittenhouse; granddaughter, Breanne; brother, Bruce (Carol) Rittenhouse; sister, Sara (Russ) Vreeland; many cousins and friends.

John was an avid 220 operator, operating the 224.440 repeater in Grand Rapids.  John supported the Independent Repeater Association (www.w8hvg.org) for many years serving as board member and vice president.  He assisted in technical undergoing and as a tower climber on many projects.

John was vice president of the family business Electronic Automation Inc. for 26 years. He loved trees, outdoors, SCUBA Diving, traveling to northern Michigan, and brewing beer and wine. He will be missed by his furry buddies who kept him comfortable Rudy, Ahi, and Billy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or Faith Hospice. Arrangements by: Memorial Alternatives 2432 Fuller NE, 1.616.363.3700 www.memorialalternatives.com

We often shared a meal and good conversation over a wide range of subject from technical in nature to outdoors and politics, ending some time with an agreement to disagree – a sign of a true friend.

He will be missed.

Michael – KC8WJA

November 7, 2004

THE LUDINGTON LINK ANTENNA INSTALLATION CREW

L to R. John WB8VOJ, Mike KC8WJA (Ninja climbers) and Marc W0WCH.  Photo by Abe W8HVG.