Roger and The Steam Shack

     I've mentioned my local model railroad shop, The Steam Shack, a few times in this blog.  I've written about the first time I called the owner, Roger Dumas, and found the long sought-out VIA Rail Grey Ghost cars.  

    Sadly, my time with The Steam Shack and Roger has come to an unexpected and sad end.  Roger passed away unexpectedly earlier this month.  It was shocking news that is still surreal.  Roger became a friend as a result of many hours talking to him about trains, work, and life in general.  He was a great listener and advisor.  Roger didn't have a store front.  His business was housed in a commercial building that he owned, and visiting was by appointment only.  The place was a mixture of rolling stock for sale and storage for his personal collection of trains.  I am sure he had one of each piece of rolling stock made in the last 20 years by the major manufactures.  Each year he purchased a whole section of tables, 10 tables, at the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show (Springfield).  Half of them he gave to a local historical society to use at the show.  Roger also worked with manufacturers to produce railcars that were on Vermont rails.

    Roger's passing is a tragedy for his friends and family as well as a loss for the model railroading community both in Vermont and the beyond. I'm grateful for knowing him.  He is and will continue to be missed.  Rest in peace, Roger and thank you!