CoffeeCrew Blog: Mentor and friend remembered - John Bryant

Mentor and friend remembered - John Bryant - safe journey · 9.02.10 by colin newell

John Bryant, mentor and friend remembered Standing in front of the mirror last night as I prepared for bed, I had the feeling that some bad news was headed my way.

I have felt this way before and I can never outrun the feeling. It has to run its course and arrive like an unwelcome piece of mail.

I have been gently instructed not to make this about me.
But it is. And it is about you. And you.

One of my mentors and brothers in one of my circles (telecom, amateur radio, media) did not finish his day today.

John Bryant, of Orcas Island and Oklahoma, in his 7th decade on Earth… fell from a ladder and died. Doing what he loved the most – playing outside with his radio antennas.

I was informed, via the telephone, from another inconsolable friend who was even closer to John.

The odd thing for me was – I have been walking around all day somewhat zoned out by this feeling. And waiting for the shock wave to arrive. And it did.

John Bryant was a born leader. A son of an actual explorer. In a time when explorers were and are the stuff of legends. A bright mind and organizer, John had the ability to build consensus and wring fresh ideas from the most jaded among us.

To quote my dear friend, Walter, who really summed it up…
“I expected another 20 years with John…”

My condolences to John, his lovely wife and all who knew him.
I pray his journey was peaceful and swift – and that his radio reception is half as good there as it was here.

Listen here for our radio interview today… Flash thingie below – if you cannot see that, click here for the mp3.

Doing a feature on PCJMedias HAPPY STATION show this week – all about the life and times of John Bryant – stay tuned for details.

— Colin Feb 14, 08:24 pm #