In memoriam: Thomas Streicher

Thomas Streicher, a former employee of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA), died unexpectedly Oct. 24, the association announced in its latest newsletter. He was 71.

Streicher served for many years as ASLRRA's general superintendent of safety prior to his retirement in 2015. His extensive railroad career included stints at Conrail and Norfolk Southern Railway. He also served as principal of his own safety and consulting firm.

"Tom was a dedicated advocate for safety, serving our members with diligence and thoughtful advice for years. In addition to his focus on safety, he was a man of varied interests, including being an opera buff. He will be truly missed," said Mike Ogborn, former ASLRRA chairman.

Streicher served on the Rail Safety Advisory Committee, Switching Operations Fatality Analysis Working Group and as a founding member of the Fatality Analysis of Maintenance-of-Way Employees and Signalmen Committee, according to ASLRRA Senior Vice President of Safety and Regulatory Policy Jo Strang.

"He loved his work at the ASLRRA and enjoyed helping railroads with safety issues and understanding regulatory matters," said Strang. "Later, when we became colleagues, I learned that Tom was kind and generous, he always had time for anyone that needed him and truly had a heart of gold."

Streicher is survived by his father, brother, sister, children and grandchildren. Memorial donations in his honor may be made to My Sister’s Place Women’s Center, 320 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, Maryland, 21201.