Back in the 1990s, I was a teenager who bought an OGR video on VHS. Featured was a wonderful layout built by Marty Fitzhenry. That layout with its tremendous service yard and vibrant backdrops burned into my young mind. I was inspired! The builder, Marty, seemed like a straightforward and friendly guy. Like most productions, though, creative editing and rehearsing can make the most curmudgeonly sort come across like the pied piper.
A few years later the OGR Forum went live. Guess what? Online, Marty Fitzhenry was the same straightforward and friendly guy I watched on that VHS tape. I also found him to be encouraging and unselfish with his knowledge of this unique and tight-knit hobby.
For over 25 years whenever I think of OGR I think of Marty. He’s been a positive influence on me from my youth to about middle age. And he’ll continue to be exactly that for the rest of my natural born days.
Thank you, Marty, for being the human being you are and all that you have done for this hobby and our community here. We are all better for it.
The Marty Fitzhenry story hasn’t been written yet. With much optimism and prayer, may there be a few more chapters yet to write.
