By Railfan & Railroad Staff
Eugene Blabey, a railroad executive who helped establish short lines across the country, died on September 2. He was 85 years old.
Blabey combined a career in journalism with a 50-year involvement with the short line railroad industry. Blabey, who retired in 1987 as United Press International’s Vice President and General Manager for Europe, became intrigued with short lines as a young UPI reporter. He was also an early contributor to Railfan with “Here Comes ConRail” in the Summer 1975 issue and “Rutland Revival Part 3: Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority” in Fall 1975. At the time, he was also an active member of the Central New York Chapter NRHS in Syracuse.
He wrote about the creation of the Livonia, Avon & Lakeville in New York and then later became an investor before joining the board of directors in 1965. As the LA&L operated seasonal steam excursions in addition to operating a healthy freight business, Gene was also an early supporter of the Tourist Railway Association, Inc., (TRAIN). Later he helped establish the Maryland & Delaware; Virginia & Maryland; Arkansas & Missouri; and LA&L subsidiary Western New York & Pennsylvania.
ABOVE: Gene Blabey holds up a copy of the May 2015 issue of Railfan & Railroad featuring a cover story about the 50th anniversary of the Livonia, Avon & Lakeville, just prior to boarding a special private excursion celebrating the event. —Otto M. Vondrak photo
In 2021, he was inducted into the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association’s Short Line Railroad Industry Hall of Fame.
“Gene was a legend in our industry and a leading voice on short line matters. We were honored to induct him into the inaugural Short Line Railroad Industry Hall of Fame class in 2021. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues,” ASLRRA President Chuck Baker said.
Jim Boyd wrote in 1975, “Although no stranger to a camera, he seems to regard himself as an observer or participant rather than a photographer. He combines an intense interest in the business side of contemporary railroading with an affection for the past.”
He is survived by his wife Shirley; his son Eugene, Eugene’s wife Annie and their two children Lauren and Tristan; his Daughter Nancy, Nancy’s husband Chris and their two children Logan and Brynn.
