3/26/2021
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of John P. Schiavo, Jr – W2JPS of Cooperstown, New York in Otsego County. John joined the ranks of the amateur radio community in 2017. Shortly after, he joined the Oneida County Traffic and Emergency Net (OCTEN) and became the calling station for the two southern-most OCTEN satellite repeaters, the 146.850 in Otsego County, owned by the Oneonta Amateur Radio Club and the 146.685 in Chenango County owned by the Chenango Valley Amateur Radio Association. He was not only the voice you expected to hear every night, but was also a vital link to the NTS for these communities. John passed away on Tuesday surrounded by his loving family after suffering a stroke the week before. Per John’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral. His kind words, positive outlook and his commitment to both the NTS and to the amateur community will not soon be forgotten. In addition to John’s many contributions to OCTEN, he also held the appointment of Official Relay Station and also was a regular net control station for ECARS.