The steam preservation community has lost another giant today. Ross Rowland has passed away. He has left a tremendous mark on world of steam preservation, and we wouldn't be where we are if it wasn't for Ross. I know he is up with Jim Wrinn and Jerry Joe Jacobson right now, and they're swapping stories and smiling as they watch us continue to press on both in their honor and following our passion. Thank you for all you did, Ross, and I'm glad that you were able to know that your baby (C&O #614) will get a third lease on life and go on to inspire and spark new interest in more people.

Rest in peace, Ross, and Godspeed. You've earned it.



What are your favorite memories regarding Ross (that you're willing to share)?

I didn't know Ross well, but I had corresponded with him briefly, and he thanked me on my "Steam (returning/being restored/being rebuilt) in 2021" thread for being so comprehensive with the restoration list. I'll never forget that.

I did not know the man personally, other than from on this site. However, he was in the cab of ex-Reading loco No. 2101 from Detroit to Grand Ledge, in the summer of 1978. That was a "Chessie Steam Special." There was a gentleman nick-named "E.M. Frimbo" who was also being honoured on that trip.
A couple of friends from Toronto and I travelled by CN train to Windsor and crossed over to ride the Chessie trip. Some nice high speed running via CN there and back combined with some great steam running in Michigan. We would have been taking a break from the regular operation of CN No. 6060 out of Toronto.
We saw Mr. Rowland there. I assume it was Mr. Rowland at the throttle for much of the trip, but the cab crew handled the train very well and put on a great show.
Mr. Rowland's passing was rather abrupt, since he asked for our thoughts and prayers on here not too long ago for his cancer. His name and contributions to the steam locomotive field speak for themselves for over many years. May he rest in peace.