John H. HERTOG

Interesting coincidence that John and Jim Hill shared the same initials. John was a big part of the team that finally put Hill's empire together having pulled off the first successful large scale railroad merger. When the defined benefit pension checks come in we can be reminded of just how successful they were. Good boss, good friend, good railroader, good role model. Thanks John. R.I.P. Mike Heyns Retired Trainmaster-Road Foreman

Adrian, it was a pleasure knowing both you and John. I first met John prior to merger at Jamestown when we worked together on a project for Northern Pacific. Later, it was my honor to introduce him as a guest speaker at a civic event in St. Louis. Best wishes, Carl Annalora

Dear Vi:

Marylou sent me the sad news about John. He seemed so vivacious at the 50+ luncheon that it was a shock to hear that he is gone. What a great person, and what a great life well lived.

I have so many memories from Wesley Chapel and also from when John drove to the UofM and Herman and I rode along. I learned to play bridge many years later and thought of all the times during those drives when John described a bridge hand that he had played at the U, and I had no idea...

Adrian, Vi, and family, John was exceptional in several ways. Corporately speaking, he was a key member of the group including Norman Lorentzen and Lou Menk, who pulled off the first successful large scale railroad merger. On a personal level, he was equally distinguished by his thoughtfulness toward his employees. I started my career in 1969 on the NP Tacoma Division at which time John was division superintendent. What impressed me having just come out of the military was his bearing...

My wife and I had the pleasure to meet John and
Vi in connection with friends of theirs in many social gatherings. Although I never worked for John in my BN career, he was a down to earth person, who never let his high position on the railroad show when in a social gathering. He always asked about my activities at BN, never expressing his own. He was a gentleman's gentleman and will be missed. Betty and I send warm condolences to Vi and family.

Adrian, Vi and family:
I never forgot John and how well he helped and supported me in my career. He always knew the right and effective way to respond to any situation. I really respected his competence, steady hand and his leadership style. I extend my condolences to the family. I know his many many friends from BN will miss him very much.

My sincere sympathy to the family and other friends of John Hertog. He was a highly valued member of the Burlington Northern management team and a fine person to work with. His leadership helped create the original firm foundation on which rests so much of the BNSF's current success. Bob Garland GN/BN