David "Dave" C. Mentzer, KY4C (SK)

Dave served in the U.S. Navy from 1968 to 1974 aboard the USS Steinaker (DD-863). The sense of duty and curiosity about how things worked that he carried from those years shaped everything after, including a long career as a telecommunications technical specialist. A devoted amateur radio operator, he spent countless hours on the air as KY4C over the last 40 years.

His family knew him as a man of quiet strength and dry humor. He was kind, reliable (unless the occasion called for dressing up), and always open to new experiences and perspectives. He was never loud, but he was always unmistakably himself. He rarely used many words, but he knew how to choose the right ones at the right time.

Dave made room for adventure and ambition, even when they didn't fit anyone's expectations. Soapbox derby cars, Boy Scouts, scuba diving, cross-country RV road trips, and ham radio were for whoever wanted to learn. He showed that seeing the world differently is a gift: something to embrace and explore.

He also proved that stubbornness, when rooted in purpose, can be a survival skill and a profound act of devotion. He firmly believed mistakes and failures were temporary, just data to learn from: a reason to adjust your glasses and take another shot.

Above all, Dave believed family is sacred. He showed up for the people he loved, patiently and consistently, in agreement or not.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine; his daughter, Heather; his sons, Harrison (Daniella) and Charles (Kara); his sister, Mary; and his grandsons, Lucas and Cole.

Dave leaves behind a legacy of lessons lived: stay curious, be true to yourself, show up for your people, and never give up. He is deeply missed. KY4C is now a silent key. 73, Dave.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.