Word has been received that a well loved and respected member of our community has passed away. Fred Pampel - KC9MJY, of the Chicago Suburbs, and leader of the American Red Cross ECRV Unit 4711, died on March 7th, 2012.
Fred Pampel was more than just another amateur radio operator, more than just a leader at the American Red Cross. Fred was known by all of us to have been a kind, caring, friend of all people who had a sense of humor and a big heart with a sense of compassion larger than could be described. Fred's first priorities were always his family and the community around him.
I remember Fred as a person who loved people. As a teacher of Red Cross Protocol and procedure, he was very focused and professional. Fred was intelligent and knew what he was doing. Fred was patient with everyone, he had the kind of public relations skills that would likely have allowed him to sell a BBQ sandwich with extra BBQ sauce to a man wearing an all white suit. Perhaps in a time like this, it would seem that a statement like this doesn't belong, but it's true and I think it characterizes Fred as the person we all knew.
Above all, Fred was a well grounded person. He knew what was real, and what was important. Fred knew that life is short, talk is cheap, and if it wasn't real we didn't need to waste our time on it. I think that is what drew people to him. To be in Fred's company was always a privilege because you always had a complete experience filled with friendship, camaraderie, and learning. Listening to Fred talk was something I loved. Fred also knew when to listen, he was well balanced like that.
Fred Pampel will not be forgotten by any of us. He is missed, and always will be.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there... I do not sleep.
I am the thousand winds that blow...
I am the diamond glints on snow...
I am the sunlight on ripened grain...
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you waken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of gentle birds in circling flight...
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry—
I am not there... I did not die...
(Author Unknown)
Further information about Fred's passing and plans for services will be posted here when it's available.
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