08/07/2026
Dear Members,
As president I am tasked to do a lot of things, some fun some not so fun and then there is this, heartbreaking task of informing our membership of the passing of one of our own. It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of our dear friend, program coordinator, and board member, E. Roy Ward.
Remarkably, Roy was with us just this past Tuesday for dinner and our monthly meeting—a gathering of 28 members, with at least 75 percent of them being personal friends of his. To receive the news of his passing just twelve hours later was an absolute shock, and it still feels surreal that he was among us so recently.
Roy had a rare gift for connection. His reach was far and wide, and genuinely everyone liked him. He was humble, down-to-earth, and always ready to lend a helping hand. He never carried a chip on his shoulder nor spoke a hurtful word, embodying the true definition of a gentleman. His knowledge of railroading and railfanning was immense.
Roy was an integral pillar of the Steel City Chapter. Through his role as program coordinator, he introduced us to countless talented and knowledgeable individuals whose contributions helped our chapter grow and thrive.
Beyond his organizational dedication, Roy was an accomplished railfan photographer and skilled modeler. His photography was breathtaking, and those who attended his presentations experienced firsthand his deep passion for the craft.
We can all learn a great deal from the way Roy lived his life—taking the time to teach and mentor others, and selflessly passing on his knowledge to future generations. The railroad community has lost a truly remarkable, kind, and talented man, and he will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.
Godspeed, my friend.
Sincerely,
Kevin G Varrato
President
2024 Steel City Chapter Convention, Union Railroad Hall Roundhouse Shop tour
"Roy in his element!"
