FYI to frisco.org - Dr. James R. Fair passed away last night from a sudden heart attack. Dr. Fair was the author of the book on the Missouri & N. Arkansas RR that many of you have in your libraries. Railroads were one of his many interests. Jim Fair was a noted chemical engineering expert, first at Monsanto Company, then later at the University of Texas. I worked with him for several years at Monsanto - my wife Caroline was in his Engineering Technology group which is how I met her. Jim has been at Texas for about the last 25 years where he was a distinguished chemical engineering professor in the fields of distillation and other separation processes. Ken
I sorry to hear about the death of Dr. James R. Fair. I am glad that you share this with everyone here. I have his book: "The North Arkansas Line - The Story of The Missouri & North Arkansas Railroad". His book will live on in many of us who may have a copy of his book. Thanks for sharing this, Ken. Brian Waller
This is sad news. I had hoped to "someday" meet Dr. Fair and express to him how much enjoyment his North Arkansas book has given me over the decades. His extensive and pivotal North Arkansas work is what all other North Arkansas fans build upon. Andre Ming
The following link will provide more details of Dr. Fair's life for those who have an interest. http://hosting-tributes-22183.tributes.com/show/James-Fair-89548681 Ken
Ken, thanks for posting this info. I am saddened to learn of his passing. I have a copy of his book on the Missouri and North Arkansas and find it a great read. My condolences to his family and friends.
I too would have liked to meet him and hear some of the stories he must have heard after writing the book. As someone who has driven many of the roads in M&NA territory, I really appreciate someone who can do the research work and then present it in an entertaining way. After first reading the book, I thought about modeling the road, but reworking brass 2-8-2's (especially in N scale) kept me from it long enough for the Frisco to become my focus. I'll lift one to the Doc (figuratively at least) whenever I pass by the old Harrison shop area.
So sad to hear of this. Prayers and condolences to his family. I hope they know how much joy his work gave some of us. Sincerely,
