Jim Hay, VE2VE SK
Former RAC Deputy Director
Radio Amateurs of Canada has received the sad news that former RAC Deputy Director James Hay, VE2VE, became a Silent Key on Friday, October 22, 2021 at age 61.
Jim Hay was born on May 10, 1960 and graduated from John Rennie High School in Pointe-Claire, Quebec in 1977. He went to CEGEP Vanier College in Montreal from 1977 to 1980 earning a diploma in Social Studies. He then attended Concordia University from 1984 to 1996, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Library Studies.
Jim obtained a Radiotelephone Operator’s General Certificate in 1984 and he received his Basic and Advanced Amateur Radio Qualifications in 1994 with the call sign VE2VE. He was a dedicated member of the Montreal Amateur Radio Club (MARC) for 23 years and served in many capacities on its Board and Executive including as its Secretary-Treasurer, Vice-President and President. He was heavily involved in its activities including teaching the Basic Qualification course, acting as Trustee for the club’s repeaters, and providing support and guidance for a variety of activities including the club’s Field Day operations and hamfests. He also organized the volunteer Amateur Radio communications for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade which was run by the United Irish Societies of Montreal.
Jim served with Radio Amateurs of Canada in many positions including as the Deputy Director for the Quebec Region, Special Advisor for Technical and Administrative Services, and as a former Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Canadian Amateur Radio Hall of Fame. In addition, Jim also served on the Board of Radio Amateurs de Quebec Inc (RAQI) for 12 years as Treasurer and Director.
Sadly, Jim passed away on October 22, 2021 at the Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence (formerly known as West Island Palliative Care Residence) after battling cancer and other medical conditions for several years. His half-brother Dave Wilson was with him. RAC would like to extend its sincere condolences to his family and friends.
A tribute article to Jim will be included in the March-April 2022 issue of The Canadian Amateur magazine. Special thanks to the Montreal Amateur Radio Club (MARC) for sharing their information and photos with us.
Phil McBride, VA3QR
RAC President and Chair