I am sad to announce that SCHEART lost a senior leader. Gary Lennert, K2KJY, became a silent key on November 27, 2025. Gary joined SCHEART in 2010 and became a driving force to enhance the analog repeater network and build out the DMR system. He accepted the responsibility of coordinating deployable assets and frequently went with the SCHEART Communications Trailer on exercises and events. Gary served on the Board of SCHEART, a Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation which supports and encourages the use of amateur radio in support of public functions and emergency communications. In addition to SCHEART volunteer activities, Gary was a key member of the State Emergency Operations Center Radio Room Team and was always willing to cover any shift, tackle any project or go on any mission. He brought decades of amateur radio experience to the team and helped build communication redundancy across the state. Gary was also active in the Department of Public Health Medical Reserve Corps. He volunteered for the Midlands communications support team and point of distribution team. In addition to helping state agencies, Gary served as the Department of Homeland Security Region 4 SHARES Coordinator. Gary loved to train and educate his fellow amateur radio volunteers and pass along his knowledge to help others grow. He was a friend and mentor to so many hams around the state. His willingness to volunteer and educate others will be greatly missed.
The family has indicated no formal service is being planned. A tribute page to Gary has been set up at https://scheart.us/gary-lennert-k2kyj-sk/. Anyone wishing to leave a message, please email to [email protected].
For those hams which wish to honor Gary, please feel free to donate to SCHEART program.
