Anyone familiar with historical railroading in the Northwest as well as historical and modern railroading in Alaska will join me in noting the passing of John last evening. Despite failing health over the past several years, he never lost his “free spirit” edge or his love of a good political debate. At a former co-column editor and then the Managing Editor for Flimsies Northwest/Northwest RailFan, John’s monthly, informative Alaska and Industrial columns were always worthy of a thorough reading. His detailed trip reports about Simpson’s operations at Shelton, WA were always looked forward to.. Even though John and I were polar opposites on the political spectrum, John’s views were always welcome—even if for a good laugh—and proved that railroading is a GREAT way to break down certain “walls”.