Charls Gendron

While I made a 35-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces Medical Corps and with an Operational deployment to Afghanistan, trains have been a major staple through my life.  As young as 7 years old, I was following my father on CHRA steam excursions behind the likes of 6167, 6218 and later CPR E8A1800’s across Quebec, Ontario and Vermont. I also spent countless hours building a basement layout in my home town of Trois-Rivieres, QC.

Having had a variety of military assignments, I had the chance to further my train interest in many regions of the country, and I have owned a business in model trains for the last 27 years.  Although I was a member at large of BRS for years, moving to Ottawa in 1998 gave me the chance to be more “hands on“ within the society and I have been part of the Dirty Hand Club since. I have developed great skills with that association and will admit to having a deep if not “fanatic” interest in railway preservation.

Now as President of the Society for the next two years, this interest will be put to the test as we move to a very important and new phase in our presence and involvement with what I called the “Experience” of the new Canada Science and Technology Museum. I hope to make this a rewarding experience for all.

 

Picture of Jack Loucks

Photo courtesy of Dave Boyd.

What do you like to do in your spare time? "Puttering" (as my wife calls it). Playing guitar. Camping.

What inspires you? Witnessing our DHC volunteers in action.

Why are you in nonprofit work? What emotional reasons? I grew up in a family that helped those in need, volunteered and gave back to the community. Seeing people's genuine, heartfelt, reaction when you've helped them without expecting anything in return, is a pretty good reason.

Who is a hero of yours? Terry Fox. Every-time I think about what Terry accomplished, I'm very humbled.

What’s something quirky about you? I am retired Drum Corps member of the Ottawa Police Services Pipe Band.