Our industry lost R. David Read just after Easter, at the age of 79. Read was a Sound & Communications Contributing Editor, wrote many features covering industry events and installations, and analyzed industry trends. He also initiated our “Audio Pioneers” series, covering Lord Rayleigh in our February 2000 issue; that series ultimately became “Industry Pioneers,” with the 21st installment covering Dr. Eugene T. Patronis, Jr.
Read started his career in communications as a messenger boy for Western Union and advanced to the position of telegrapher in 1949. He became a telegrapher/wire-chief for Southern Pacific and Santa Fe Railways, and then a microwave and automation technician. He worked for Rauland-Borg, Dukane Corp. and the pre-Telex Altec Lansing, as well as helping NSCA (National Systems Contractors Association) organize its educational programs. A member of the AES (Audio Engineering Society) and ASA (Acoustical Society of America), an associate of USITT (United States Institute for Theatre Technology) and a frequent participant in BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Service International) proceedings, Read was also a participating member of the Morse Club of America.
R. David Read was more than just a name on the masthead of Sound & Communications. He and his wife, Sharon (both pictured here), were friends to us, and to many in the industry.
Click here for Sound & Communications’ “Industry Pioneers” series.
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