One of BRS' founding members, Duncan du Fresne was a renowned and much sought after railway historian. Dunc was an author and speaker on the days of steam on the railways, particularly Canadian Pacific where he worked as a locomotive fireman until 1957.

Dunc wrote two books for the Society (Snow Plow Extra and When Steam and Steel Get in Your Blood) and for many years wrote a monthly column, "Tidbits", for the Society's magazine, Branchline. Also a retired air traffic controller, Dunc personified everything transportation. When not restoring and running steam locomotives at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, Duncan spent many hours cruising down the Rideau Canal system on his pride and joy, the "Channel Island," a 36-foot cruiser he built himself.

du FRESNE, Duncan Henry

Peacefully in hospital with family by his side on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, aged 82 years. Loving and cherished husband of 59 beautiful years to Joyce (nee Bennett). Dear Father of Bruce (Jacqueline) of Colorado Springs, CO, Valerie Beebe (Ross) of Chilliwack, BC and Laurie Chatigny (Paul) of Ottawa. Adoring Grandpa to Samantha, Andrea, Clare and Bennett, and three "granddogs", Deuce, Auggie and Teddy. A renowned and much sought after railway historian, author and founding member of the Bytown Railway Society in Ottawa. Also a retired air traffic controller, Duncan personified everything transportation. When not restoring and running steam locomotives at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, Duncan spent many hours cruising down the Rideau Canal system on his pride and joy, the "Channel Island," a 36-foot cruiser he built himself. Duncan will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Many thanks to the ICU staff at the Ottawa Hospital (General Campus) for their excellent care and compassion. Friends may call at the Westboro Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes 403 Richmond Road at Roosevelt on Monday, June 18 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A memorial service will be held at St. Matthew's Anglican Church, Glebe Ave. near Bank St., on Tuesday, June 19 at 11 a.m. Donations to The Ottawa Hospital Foundation - Intensive Care or Nephrology Unit (General Campus) would be appreciated. 

Tributes, condolences or donations may be made at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com 

Published in The Ottawa Citizen on June 16, 2012