Chuck Scott – N8DNX

It is with great sadness that we inform you that Charles “Chuck” Scott of Petoskey died peacefully in Ann Arbor on October 20, 2020 at the age of 68.

The second son of Agnes and Julian Scott, Chuck was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan with his three siblings. As a teenager, he developed his lifelong interest in amateur radio and electronics, earning his ham radio license in 1966. He built the WBLD radio station at West Bloomfield High School, where he also raced with the ski team.

His sister calls Chuck a mensch, and he called himself “Mr. Mom.” He had a radar for detecting when others needed a helping hand and responded generously. Chuck’s active role in raising his daughters was as playful as his other pursuits. He spoiled those around him with his cooking and enjoyed food from many cultures.

Chuck could spot a dry Petoskey stone while walking along the Lake Michigan shore. He enjoyed boating and appreciating the beauty of Northern Michigan.

An active citizen, Chuck’s influence extended throughout the area. Along with his friend Jim Cook and brother Dave, he co-founded Freeway, bringing the first residential and business Internet access to Northern Michigan. In 1998, Chuck established the web development firm Gaslight Media.

Chuck served on the Board of Directors for the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, and was Vice President of Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet Counties Public Service Communications Organization (CCECPSCO). He was also a valued member of the Straits Area Amateur Radio Club (SAARC) and the former Tri-County Office of Emergency Management Committee (OEM).

Chuck is survived by his wife Jan, daughters Amy and Krista, siblings Marty, Deborah, and Dave, and numerous extended family, who hosted an online Celebration of Life on November 14, 2020.

Anyone wishing to honor Chuck’s memory with a donation may give to the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, or to CCECPSCO, c/o Chuck Brew at PO Box 686 Mackinaw City, 49701.