Actually, this is more of a tribute to Bob and what he created than a story.
I began volunteering at the Colorado Railroad Museum in 1967, just before my 16th birthday. I thought that it was great that Bob would give all of these kids (and that's what we were then) their own clubhouse and yard to run in.
Over the years I began to appreciate the museum as an introduction to the art and business of Railroading. Many others, whether they want to admit it or not, felt the same way.
There are many volunteers from the Colorado Railroad Museum who later went on to make Railroading their career.
Chris Ahrens became well known for his ability with Steam Locomotives (he started with the 346)
Ed Gerlits operated the High Country Railroad.
John Bush, late of the WP&Y is well known.
Lake Trump hired out on the D&RGW.
Dave Straight worked for the Great Western.
Fred Oster became a machinist for the D&RGW
Dave Dean became a brakeman for the UP
Randy Dean became an Engineer for the C&S
Don Williamson became a switchman for the BNSF
Shannon Douglass became a Conductor for the UP
I became an Engineer for UP.
I'm sure that there are others that I have missed. I would appreciate the rest of the list being filled in.
Bob gave us all something much greater than the chance to play with Railroad equipment. Bob gave us a chance to peek into our futures and see what this Railroad business is all about. Now that many of us are nearing retirement or have retired from the Railroad Industry, I think that we can all look back on the opportunities that Bob afforded us and give him a very heartfelt "Thank You". Bob you gave us more than an opportunity, you gave us a career.
Rick Steele
Colorado Central Narrow Gauge RR 1969-1974
Georgetown Loop 1974-1978
Union Pacific 1978-now.
