For those that do not know who Richard Sparks was, he was the unofficial historian and 'go-to-person' for all things Cass, WVa; Cass Scenic Railroad; Shay and other geared locomotives and logging railroads in general.
The following was posted on Facebook:
A legend has gone home. This morning, we said goodbye to our friend and mentor, Richard Sparks, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Mr. Sparks was a renowned railroad artist and historian, charter member and officer of the Mountain State Railroad & Logging Historical Association, where he served as longtime editor of "The Log Train." A native of Alexandria, Virginia, Richard devoted his life to researching and documenting the “true history” of Cass and West Virginia logging railroads. For many years, he coordinated CALS (Chesapeake & Allegheny Live Steamers) photo charters, to the delight of photographers. Mr. Sparks was magnanimous in the sharing of both his knowledge and photographs and our community is richer in many ways for having been exposed to his artwork and writings. Richard will be remembered as a humble gentleman, who never met a stranger. A short visit with him left you with an impression that would last a lifetime. Please keep his loving wife Ann and the entire Sparks family in your prayers. Rest easy, Richard and thank you for being so generous by sharing your incredible work with all of us.
