Wayne York
I first met John in 1972. Five of us were involved in the formation of the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, Inc. including John. He was an interesting fellow. While driving his yellow station wagon to Lima, Ohio ( to help get a 1905 Nickel Plate Road caboose ready to ship to Ryan Road, New Haven) he listened to classical music on the radio. That was not expected for a working foreman. I was aware of his model building prowess and visited his model railroad in the basement several times back then. He was instrumental in getting the 1944 Nickel Plate Road steam locomotive out of Lawton Park in 1974. Not only his mechanical knowledge, but his contacts and professional relationship within the railroad company were essential to getting No. 765 back on the road. In later years, he would still come out to the CASAD SHOP on Edgerton Road when the 765 was fired up. He was content to sit in his vehicle while the locomotive was under steam, making its unique sounds and smells. Last time I saw him was last year at Richard's Restaurant, New Haven. He was chewing the fat with some fellow model railroaders...............Wayne York, Jackson Center, Ohio.
