2007 Railroad Days Person of the Year

David Lewis of Durand has been selected as the 2007 Railroad Person of the Year, in conjunction with Durand Railroad Days, May 18-20. The honor is sponsored annually by Durand Union Station Inc. Dave was employed for 35 years by CN Rail (Grand Trunk) where he had worked in several capacities. He was a trackman, a machinery operator, a mechanic, a loader and a crane operator.

He was an American Crane operator when he retired. He has worked laying track, repairing track, removing track, repairing bridges and working on derailments. Dave has always been a hard worker and puts his "all" into everything that he does. His dedication to his work and getting the job done was exemplary.

His nomination form describes him as a "very hardworking, honorable man." He was fortunate to be able to combine his love of trains with his love of repairing machines and operating heavy equipment. Dave was a past member of Durand Railroad Days, Inc. serving as chairman of the Steam Show Committee; he was a past member of the Durand Area Lions Club and was an elder at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Flint.

He is currently a member of the National Threshers Association and a member of the Shiawassee Dog and Gun Club. Dave enjoys attending gun shows, tractor shows, taking trips to Alaska to see two of his children who live there, repairing tractors, making trips up north, hunting, and fishing with his grandchildren.

Dave and his wife, Lois of 39 years, have two sons, Dave and Shawn, four daughters, Karen, Stephanie, Dana and Stacey and seventeen grandchildren all who are very proud to have their husband, father and grandfather named Railroad Person of the Year 2007.