Dwayne Lewis – K7KSZ

K7KSZ

Dwayne Myrle Lewis, 83, passed away on January 12, 2017. At that time, K7KSZ’s key went silent. Born in Spokane, WA, December 15, 1933, to Myrle and Hazel Lewis. He spent his childhood as the oldest of three children, with brother, Jim and sister, Barbara. He developed an interest in radios early in life that carried through the rest of his days. After graduating from Rogers High school he was drafted into the U.S. Army, then served honorably for two years in the Korean War. Dwayne met the love of his life, Patty Lott on his return to the states. They married soon after in 1955 and had three children. Settling in Tacoma, WA, he worked for Tacoma City Light at Cushman dam & Simpson, St. Regis & F.S. Harmon mills on the tide flats. In 1960 his interest was sparked in Ham radio. The FCC issued him call letters: K7KSZ. 1967, He moved his family to Lake Stevens, WA, where he worked for Weyerhaeuser in many capacities including Head of radio repair for W. Washington. In 1986 Dwayne started Lew’s Two Way Communications. Customers flocked to him for his exceptional skill and knowledge. In the late 80’s he soloed for his pilots license and together with Patty they flew the skies of Washington and beyond. Family was important to Dwayne. He held strong political beliefs and was proud to be an American. He was preceded in death by his son, Dan. He is survived by Patty, his wife of 61 years, son, Johnny (Brenda) and daughter, Victoria (Denny) along with five grandchildren and five great grandchildren.