W5GPO 1935 - 2021
W5GPO - Charles T. 'Charlie' Byars Charles T. 'Charlie' Byars
Wichita Falls, TX

QCWA # 12660
Chapter 114
First Call: W5GPO in 1954       Other Call(s): N/A

Posted: Sep 12, 2021 / 04:19 PM CDT / Updated: Sep 12, 2021 / 05:17 PM CDT WICHITA COUNTY (KFDX/KJTL) —

Wichita County Storm Spotter Coordinator Charlie Byars passed away Sunday afternoon, September 12, 2021. Byars was a storm spotter with KFDX 3 during Terrible Tuesday in April 1979. He was named a Hometown Hero in March, 2000. Charlie Byars continued to chase storms, eventually becoming the Wichita County Storm Spotter Coordinator. The Wichita County ARES/Skywarn organization shared this Facebook post announcing his passing to the community: It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Charlie Byars, W5GPO. We have been blessed and somewhat spoiled to have his guidance and abilities for many decades. He has been the backbone of our organization since the beginning. We have lost not just a leader and communicator, but a friend. Rest assure Charlie, although your watch is over, we will carry on.. 73's. Charlie Byars began his involvement in storm spotting in 1955. Charlie’s continuing dedication to the safety of the community has been an inspiration to others who have since joined in the storm watch effort.