Bradley Dean Wessels

Bradley D. Wessels

W9ZT

Bradley Dean Wessels, age 69 of Appleton, WI passed away on November 15, 2025. He was born to Russell and Velma (Getz) Wessels on April 10, 1956. After graduating from high school, Brad completed his Bachelor of Science degree in three years at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, then went on to earn his doctorate in dentistry from Marquette University, graduating in 1981 at the top of his class. Brad worked most of his dentistry career at Dental Associates of Appleton.

Brad was an avid amateur radio operator, receiving his novice license at age 13 in 1970 under the callsign WN9FFO. He progressed to the status of Extra Class, the highest rank given to an amateur operator, signing out with the callsign W9ZT. He received the DX Century Club award several times, for having two-way communication with other operators in at least one hundred countries. He took pride in restoring vintage tube radios.

Brad had an adventurous soul and a real love for nature. He enjoyed traveling - especially visiting national parks out West – and taking in the beauty of nature with his eyes, his heart, and his camera. Brad loved fishing, boating and swimming at his family’s cottage on Eva Lake in Ontario, Canada, which he helped to build. He cherished 50 years of Eva Lake memories and friends. Around Wisconsin, you could often find Brad staying in shape by riding his bike along country roads, with dear friends. More than anything, though, Brad loved his family, especially his son, Drew.

Bradley will be deeply missed by his son, Drew M. Wessels; his siblings, Richard Wessels, Robert Wessels, and Carol Wessels; his niece and nephews, Wendy, Reid, and Ken; as well as extended relatives and dear friends from the United States and Canada. His CQ will be missed around the world. Bradley was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Velma; and his nephew, Brady.

A memorial visitation will be held for Brad from 2-3 PM on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Fargo Funeral Home, 400 W. Wisconsin Ave, Kaukauna, WI 54130 with a memorial service led by his sister, Carol at 3 PM. Brad will be laid to rest privately with his parents at Redeemer United Church of Christ Cemetery in Sussex, WI in 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Jack Miller Center for Peripheral Neuropathy or to the National Kidney Foundation in accordance with Brad’s wishes.

W9ZT 73 SK

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Donate to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy: https://www.foundationforpn.org/donate/ 

Donate to the National Kidney Foundation: https://www.kidney.org/