I learned this afternoon of Jack's passing...

I worked for Jack during his short time he was in Cumberland. This photo was taken just before the start of the first season out of Cumberland.

http://www.newsleader.com/story/obituar ... /19352779/

Thank you for posting.

Jack Durham Showalter, age 86, of 762 Lexington Avenue, Charlottesville, Virginia passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville surrounded by his family.

Jack was born January 6, 1928 in Iron Gate, Virginia to the late Joseph Yount Showalter and Virginia Eliza Durham Showalter, the third of seven children.

He served in the United States Army, 187th Airborne, during the occupation of Japan following World War II. Upon his return, he worked as a machinist for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad before embarking on a career as a builder/developer. Named "Builder of the Decade" for his work in the 1960's, In 1972, Jack purchased the former Hot Springs branch of the C&O Railroad north of Covington and began collecting and rebuilding antique steam locomotives and passenger cars. By 1975, with the help of master machinist and engineer W. H. Bursey of Clifton Forge and other skilled volunteers, the train began regular excursions that brought thousands of tourists to western Virginia from around the world.

A decade later, Jack relocated to Western Maryland where he was instrumental in establishing a tourist railroad between Cumberland and Frostburg, Maryland. In 1992, he returned to Virginia to operate a number of mainline excursions between Charlottesville, Staunton, Clifton Forge, and Gordonsville.

A funeral Mass will be held November 28, 2014 at 2 pm at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 401 Alderman Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Memorial and Honor Program F, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 30105-1905 or UVA Children's Hospital, P. O. Box 800773, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908

A gentleman, friend and staunch steam lover. Condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.

Ross Rowland

I would like to believe somewhere in Heaven this scene is being recreated....... Thanks Jack for everything you did for me.

Tim Wilson

During my brief time with the Old Dominion Chapter, NRHS I had the pleasure of meeting Jack. Very sorry to hear of his passing.

Wonder what will become of his equipment, currently in storage in central VA. I remember that some time ago it was for sale as a lot in its entirety. Hoping for the best for it. Maybe Will Harris?....