Dear Stewart Family
June 15, 2024
Condolences to the Stewart Family on the loss of your Al and this brings back many poignant memories.
I worked as an Interlocking Leverman Centre Street Tower ( summer 1969) and later that summer was transferred to 12St Tower and during the University term fall 1969- summer 1970 worked Relief and summer 1970 it was full time 12 St. at the New Tower.
Many years ago but it was Al "Curly 'Stewart working who phoned me after some difficulty at Elbow River Bridge -an incoming drag had dropped a load of lumber on the bridge and knocked out the signals and all progress then was by flagman and radio contact and it took couple of hours to get the signals working again and it was when all was well that Al Stewart called me along with Dick Bottar ( boss of the new signals for the refigured 12 St Yard and new tower under construction ) and thanked me --- I will never forget this. This gesture is what made the CPR good and Al Stewart appreciated- he was likewise a good Co-Ordinator and took matters in stride- professionally.
Many years ago but some things a person never forgets and Al Stewart was one very good Co-Ordinator and Yardmaster --- my father likewise recalled Norm Smith (then working days at IYO - Industrial Yard Office ) with good remembrances.
Alyth was busy and time has passed but in reality those 2 years that I worked CPR Towers were in reality the Happiest times that I had in my working career and it was because of some nice personalities such as Al Stewart and characters-the cast of enginemen and yardmen at IYO and top end of Alyth which made this time special and never to be forgotten.
When Al began with CPR as car checker- my father - A W La France was Rules Instructor Alberta District 1951-1954 and then transferred Edmonton as Chief Train Dispatcher and retired Calgary October 1965 in the same capacity.
I am going to call on those memories and summon personalities Don Ferguson- Eddie Woelk - Nick Farion et al to ensure that Al has a good time awaiting him and the Stewart Family consoled on their loss.
I know now --- it is in some sense a tragedy working CPR since in spite of later MBA and supposedly superior pay and not working shifts --- the CPR was my best job-in terms of job satisfaction --- I honestly think one day I am going to sit down and pen my recollections and Al will surely be included.
God Bless you all and please be assured that Al is now aloft at the Big Eye in the Sky and having a hearty chat -with Toby Frewin -- Don Cowie - Al Leinweber and for certain --- that Johnny Donald.
Condolences to the Stewart Family and thanks for his write up regarding Alyth and CPR and family history since without this-I would not now be forwarding YOU your warranted condolences and appreciation for Al's life- prayers are likewise extended herewith
John La France
