Bill Hastings, KB3TBT passed away on May 4, 2025. Bill served as the Butler County Emergency Coordinator (EC) for the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) for approximately 10 years. He was very active in all three amateur radio clubs in the area and was a friend to all Hams in Butler and the surrounding counties. As an Extra Class radio operator, he enjoyed many aspects of the hobby, VHF, UHF, HF, and Digital communication. He was always ready to experiment with something new. Many will remember Bill for his cheerful, enthusiastic and generous spirit, along with his dedication to planning and participating in radio events, often with his wife Marianne, KB3YWU and his son Tommy at his side. Bill was a key player in helping the PSG purchase two new repeaters for the club, arranged to have a battery backup installed at the Alameda Park repeater location and provided a virtual video connection for the club’s monthly meetings. Bill and Marianne were both registered ARRL VE’s and also organized the Butler County Amateur Radio Public Service Group’s annual Christmas Party’s for the last several years. They both would plan, do most of the cooking, and even generously provided numerous small gifts for the attendees.
Bill served his country in the United States Marine Corp from 1969 to 1971.