Our community has lost a pillar of strength and a source of steady guidance.
ZACHARY “Zak” COHEN, known on the air as N6PK, passed away on January 27, 2026, surrounded by family. His departure leaves a profound emptiness in the Amateur Radio world and in the hearts of all who knew him.
Zak, licensed since 1961 while in the Navy, was more than just a skilled operator; he was a builder of communities. Over the years, he dedicated countless hours to supporting local emergency communications efforts, mentoring new operators, strengthening nets, and helping maintain the continuity and resilience of our region’s volunteer services.
Whether working with CERT teams, ACS/ARES groups, training newcomers, or coordinating quiet but essential behind‑the‑scenes logistics, Zak brought dedication, patience, and reliability to everything he touched.
He had a natural gift for teaching. Many licensed operators today found their start — or their confidence — because Zak took the time to guide them, answer their questions, or simply encourage them to keep going. He mentored with kindness, never ego. When someone struggled, Zak didn’t step back; he stepped forward. He followed up. He checked in. He made sure people felt supported.
And in the moments that mattered most — emergencies, activations, or times of uncertainty — Zak was the person others looked to. Calm, steady, and clear‑minded, he embodied the spirit of service that Amateur Radio is built upon. His presence on the nets brought reassurance; his leadership brought stability.
Yet Zak’s contributions weren’t just technical — they were human. He was often the one who reached out to families when a community member became a Silent Key, ensuring that their service was honored with dignity. He offered encouragement when someone was discouraged, wisdom when someone was overwhelmed, and friendship when someone simply needed to feel seen.
For those of us who had the privilege of calling him a friend, the loss is especially deep. Zak was a confidant and a companion — someone who listened without judgment and spoke with sincerity. His absence leaves a vacuum not just in our clubs, nets, and organizations, but in our daily lives. Many of us are better Hams — and better people — because of him.
Godspeed, Zak. Thank you for every hour you gave, every student you mentored, every operator you supported, and every life you touched. Your signal may have gone quiet, but your legacy will continue to resonate — carried forward in the skills you taught, the systems you strengthened, and the countless people you inspired.