In Memoriam
PMRRV'S FAREWELL TO
TWO MISSING TRAINMEN
This has not been a good month for the PMRRV. We lost two members.
Stuart Gordon
1926 - 2001
Stuart Gordon, who was 75, was one of our longer-time members. He joined when things
were still in the "what do we do now" stage; a time for rebuilding all of the
equipment the City had acquired from the Porter estate. He, with Pete Mihalkanin,
Tom Claus, Chuck Cross and who knows how many others, produced the wonderful coach
we ride in today.
Stu was qualified to operate all three pieces of our equipment and could always be
relied upon to fill in when operators were needed. We used to kid him about driving
so fast (it's all relative!) but he always did well.
When Don DeBruler died, Stu took over the Operation Lifesaver duties. The PMRRV has
become one of the most active participants in this worthwhile activity, teaching
children the need for safety around railroads and crossings.
Eunice Gordon told me that some time ago Stu said he would like to be interred in
the Dearborn Cemetery because "he could hear the train whistle blow from there".
We're all going to miss Stu with his cheerful demeanor and willing spirit. Be in
peace, friend.
On June 9, the PMRRV ran the trolley all day in memory of Stu. Proceeds from the
day's operations will be donated in Stu's name to the San Diego Zoological Society.
Grant Reed-Plouffe
1995 - 2001
The other passing member was Grant Reed-Plouffe. Grant was just shy of six years
old when his brain cancer claimed him. Grant was made an honorary engineer of the
PMRRV in October, 1999. Grant's passion was for trains of all kinds and fire
engines. The Poway Fire Dept. also made him an honorary fireman. Everyone that was
touched by Grant did all they could to help in his battle. From The Xerox Corp.
to the Make-a-wish Foundation to Disneyland and countless others. The family is
very grateful to all.
Grant fought a long hard fight with his cancer and for a while it looked like he
might just win. His favorite costume was of Superman. As his family put it, "he
leaped into heaven on May 31, 2001". A memorial service was held in Old Poway Park
on June 8 and was attended by 300 people. Of course, the steam train (one of Grant's
favorites) was in attendance.
Scenes of Memorial Operations
Photos taken by various PMRRV Members
Click on pictures to see larger image
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June 9, 2001 |
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In Memoriam
Today's ticket sales are being donated to the
San Diego Zoological Society
in memory of
Stuart Gordon
A long-standing Member of PMRRV
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June 8, 2001 |
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In Memoriam
Today's train operations are free
and are dedicated to
the memory of
Grant Reed-Plouffe
A Junior Member of PMRRV
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