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Link Museum promoter Dave Helmer dies
David was a U. S. Army Transportation Corps officer, not a Marine. He ran truck convoys in the early days of the Vietnam War. Prior to helping start the O, Winston Link Museum he was active in the Roanoke Chapter NRHS and, along with Carl Jensen and others, was instrumental in running the famous Independence Limited excursion trains on Southern, N&W, and Norfolk Southern Railways beginning in 1974. He was also very involved in the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
I met David and his wife at the Natural Tunnel open house a couple of years ago. He was a real gentlemen and great supporter of history, the Link Museum and other rail related activities. I didn’t know him well, but what I learned chatting with him for an hour or so that day! I am sure he will truly be missed.
My condolences to his family.
I owe a lot to Mr. Helmer. He ushered me through the doors at NS and started me on a career that allowed me realize a childhood ambition: to work for a railroad. He truly was a gentleman, and I will be forever grateful for the time and guidance he gave me. Rest in peace.
This TRAINS subscriber who visited the OWL Museum and the VMT in 2009 thanks Mr. Helmer. RIP.
Prior to my retirement, I was a counterpart on the KCS. I was glad to know him as we had many joint meetings. He was truly a gentleman.
Sad to hear of Dave’s passing. I got to know him during the establishment of the Link Museum and thought he was quite the gentleman. As a friend of Winston Link, I had been invited to participate in the oral history collection but sadly I never got down there during that time. Dave’s work leaves a nice legacy.
Sad news, and sorry to hear about his passing. Dave was a great guy and showed this Yankee plenty of Southern hospitality. He will and should be remembered for his major role in making the Link Museum a reality. He will be missed.