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John Sytsma, who championed rail workers’ working condition and safety causes as leader of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE) and served the rail industry for more than 47 years, died May 29 of natural causes. He was 85.

Sytsma joined the union in 1956 as office administrator and chief clerk. He later was elected general secretary-treasurer, a position he held for 14 years until he became first vice president in 1974. Sytsma was elected president in 1976 and held the top post for 10 years until he retired in 1986.

While president, he worked to increase wages and improve working conditions for U.S. and Canadian engine-service employees. Sytsma also led efforts to develop and promote programs aimed at combating drug and alcohol abuse among rail employees, opposed random breathalyzer tests and dog searches of workers, and testified before Congress and federal agencies to improve rail safety standards.

“John was one of the great Brotherhood leaders who helped shape the organization that we know today,” said Don Hahs, national president of the current incarnation of the BLE — the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen — in a prepared statement. “His wisdom, experience and knowledge will be sorely missed.”

Known as a “witty and generous man” by colleagues and friends, Sytsma joined the rail industry at age 19 as a fireman for the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railroad. A World War II veteran, he worked his way up to locomotive engineer.

Sytsma is survived by two daughters, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His wife of more than 60 years, Phyllis, preceded him in death in 2004.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Camp Kostopulos, an organization serving disabled children and adults, at 2500 Emigration Canyon Road, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.