Annetta Valley & Western Railroad

History
From Terry McGrath, 2 July 2013:


 * Ron Paddock, a charter member of the AV&W, and one of three who began construction on the railroad in 1971, passed away today, suffering from an extended illness. Ron, Paul Beverung and myself started the railroad, and the three of us celebrated the finishing of our first loop of track that summer.  Ron insisted in taking a "first" run during the middle of a summer rain storm, with me standing inside the depot looking out the window!  Ron was a helicopter pilot serving with Paul during Vietnam and was an avid fan of the Erie Railroad, collecting many Erie locomotives and rolling stock.  He had a positive attitude and was one of the most friendly people I every knew, always willing to help with any project until he became ill. He attended his last meet during the 40th anniversary meet (2012) where the RON PADDOCK TRANSFER was named after him. Funeral services will be held at the National Cemetery in Arlington after the July Fourth holiday. So long old friend!  We'll see you later at one of those heavenly train meets.