Wednesday, February 28, 2024
I started with Simmons in early 1986 as an engineer and quickly met Tom. He was fully involved in every project and all disciplines. His knowledge of the railroad and its customers was unmatched. His commitment to customers defined him. He quickly became my mentor in all things railroad and in customer relations. We traveled together in the US and eventually the UK and China. He was incredibly quick to learn customs and cultivate positive relations with international customers. Tom saw the humor in many situations that were stressful, making it easier for everyone involved. After I left Simmons in the late 90s, we crossed paths on a few occasions at customer rail facilities and he always greeted me warmly picking up where we left off. I have followed in many of his footsteps including RVing and being unwilling to stop working in the rail industry we both loved, now in my semi-retirement. I was still looking for him when I visited customers and am sad to stop hoping for another opportunity to catch up. I have shared his passing with customers who were sorry to hear the news. He will be missed. I would like to attend his memorial service and would appreciate notice by email – rogerdcollen@gmail.com. I have some photos I would like to share but cannot access them until late March.
