Death and the Model Railroader III: Remembering David R. Dyck

David R. Dyck on a CP Rail SD40-2 during a last
railfan trip together.

This week I am remembering my good friend, and fellow model railroader, David Dyck.

Dave died of cancer on May 29, 2004. Before he died, I helped him take down his layout. It was the only time I saw him shed a tear.

David taught history of science at the University of Winnipeg. His area of scholarly interest was the life and work of Sir John F. W. Herschel (1792–1871), recognized as one of the the most important figures in 19th century science.

Before David became to sick to travel, we took one last railfan excursion together in fall, 2003. We followed the CPR line to Moose Jaw, Sask. and then down through North Dakota. It is an experience I remember fondly.

Dave's tombstone, showing the things he loved and valued:
His faith, farming, science (sundial on the left)
trains and books.

Other posts in this "series" on death and the model railroader can be found here, here and here.