Oh, no! Am still kind of new to this hobby, but you can tell from all these comments and links that he will be missed by many. Thoughts and prayers for family and friends.
According to George Johnsen, writing in the latest issue of the N Scale Enthusiast Magazine, Jim had actually kept the layout up for two years so that he could display it at the rescheduled Nashville convention in June. There were plans to leave the house and dismantle the layout. It's so sad that he is not here to display his work. I'm sure Jim was really looking forward to it.
Haven't been on TB for some time here but very sad to hear of Jim passing. I was very fortunate to buy some of his locomotives when I was first starting in DCC about 10 years ago. Jim was a great seller and an amazing artist when it came to his layout, really enjoyed all of his updates and will miss them. Rest In Peace Sir and thank for your fantastic contributions to the hobby. Think I'll go visit the Oakville Sub thread again. V/r Steve
How ironic and sad that Charlie Vlk started this thread announcing the passing of Jim, when he himself passed shortly thereafter. Double sadnesss.
As much as it is sad and even frightening to come to terms with my own mortality when like minded compatriots move on I admire what I witnessed of Jim's accomplishments. Many have ideas and dreams of their ultimate project but Jim's expansive layout was second to none and no doubt a labor of love bolstered by exceptional skill and attention to detail. I can only envy the satisfaction he felt looking over his domain that he created while he ran his trains.
I know it was taken down, some I believe got items off of it, not sure if any one took a section. This was due to the need to clear out the house.
Actually, Charlie Vik did get a little of the layout itself and was also still helping with dismantling it this time last year. Last time I talked to Charlie was right after the N scale convention and it was a work in progress at that point.
