In memoriam

[Rene Schweitzer]

I'm saddened to report that John Franzen, a longtime hobbyist and contributor to GR and MR, passed away last Thursday after a battle with cancer. John was an amazing modeler and I was fortunate to accompany our photographer to his house twice.

He was featured in April 2003 with his Mexican-themed indoor railroad. You can view photos online here: http://www.trains.com/grw/default.aspx?c=a&id=47

 We will also be featuring his new, Milwaukee-themed railroad in the February 2007 issue. In the coming days, I will be putting together a "sneak peek" article online. I'll post the link when it's ready.

 

Rene 

[Rene Schweitzer]

In case you'd like to take a peek at his latest railroad, I've now posted photos: http://www.trains.com/grw/default.aspx?c=a&id=523

[vsmith]

Thats sad news Rene

His Mexican theme layout was the one that convinced me to try LS indoors. I'll have to find a way to pay tribute to him as it gets rebuilt. Please express my condolences to his family.

[tangerine-jack]

His passing is a great loss to the hobby.  His work was truly inspirational will be missed by all.

[Anonymous]

I am struck to hear the news. Seems the other day I was reading about the kitty litter ore cars because I was not wanting a ore mine but after reading it I had changed my thoughts and details on my rail way because he made me rethink it over.

Some touch our hearts in different places. Prayers are with you and your family.

William Pugh

[Ray Dunakin]

I'm very sorry to hear that! I I too have been inspired by his Mexican RR layout, and in fact I've had that issue open to his article right here next to my computer for the past couple weeks. His modeling was superb and ingenious. Among other things, I'm amazed at the results he had in converting Victorian Christmas figures into Mexican villagers. My sincere condolences to his family.