A very unfortunate event happened today. Rob Carlson, publisher of the famous and invaluable railfan tool, the Altamont Press Railfan Timetable, was found deceassed by his friend John Orr. Rob passed away suddenly this past week. Rob also published a daily-but Sunday railroad newsline on his website; altamontpress.com. Rob’s Railfan timetables were very popular among western railfans, and helped many people explore new lines across the west for the first time. The railfan community owes a huge debt of gratitude to Rob that will never be repaid in full. He will be sorely missed!
from Calrailfans list…
"I am afraid that I have to break some bad news to you all . Because I was worried like everyone else about Rob not keeping the news up to date, I went over to his apartment. I got the managers to go into his apartment. He was there. However I am afraid that he was deceased. Can only say that I am kind of in shock right now. I first got to know Rob in about 1975. We did a lot of railfanning. Anyway. I am afraid that is the story. Maybe there will a report later on the cause of all this.-John Orr "
Sad news indeed. I never had the pleasure of knowing him other than through his news site. I always enjoyed reading the daily updates. My most sincere sympothys to Rob’s family and friends. I wish I could be there in person to express them.
All I can say is he was a REAL CLASS ACT!!
It was a real treat to see him each and every year at Winterail.
I know we will all miss his tireless dedication to the entire railfan community.
Thank you so very much for your service to the railfan community Rob!
You REALLY took the railfan hobby to new heights!
— Daniel
I’m in shock. I never got the chance to meet Rob but have enjoyed his many contributions the the railfan community for years. He will be missed. God bless him and his family.
As a regular reader of his news column, I was stunned by the news.
Mr. Carlson lived alone; it’s fairly obvious that he died alone as well. I hope his passing was swift and painless. (Best I can figure, he was about my age–makes one think.)
I sure hope someone keeps the bussness going. Those timetables are a great resource. I have been buying them sience Calif #1, the first. And the news on there website is my main news source.
Rob will be missed…a Class Act.