ARRL Life Member Howard O. “H.O.” Townsend, K5CX (ex-WA5MLT), of Naples, Texas, died on May 30. He was 69. Townsend was a retired software designer and a US Army veteran.

An Honor Roll DXer, West Gulf Division Assistant Director, and past Section Emergency Coordinator, Townsend participated in the W1AW/5 Centennial QSO Party operation from Texas (12 meters SSB).

ARRL West Gulf Division Director Dr David Woolweaver, K5RAV, said Townsend’s obituary fails to capture Townsend’s importance as an advisor to him and to past West Gulf directors. “He was active in several clubs and continually promoted Amateur Radio,” Woolweaver said. “He leaves a big hole in the Amateur Radio community.”

The family has requested memorial donations to the ARRL Education and Technology Fund (ETP), 225 Main St, Newington, CT 06111-1494.