Roger Paul Weaver

"I loved trains and railroading and couldn't wait to get started." Roger Weaver's passion for the railroad was an unstoppable force calling him to the railroad as a teenager. His commitment to his career was a reflection of Roger's unwavering dedication, trustworthiness, and grit as a professional. More importantly, Roger was just the same as a husband, dad and grandpa. Roger Paul Weaver, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving wife and family on March 24, 2025.
Born on February 15, 1938, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Roger's fascination with trains began at an early age. As a teenager, he pursued his dream of working on the railroad, beginning a remarkable 52-year career that spanned the golden age of American rail travel. He started with the New York Central's Big Four line, working as a tower operator, brakeman, and conductor. Over the years, he experienced firsthand the transition from steam to diesel locomotives, riding in the cabs of legendary engines such as the Hudson, Mohawk, and Niagara. He later worked for Penn Central, Conrail and Amtrak before retiring in 2007.
Roger's love for the railroad was more than a career-it was a calling. He could recount the days when Crestline saw 55 passenger trains pass through in a single day and when the vast Bellefontaine rail yards were bustling with activity. Though much of the railroad landscape changed over the years, his passion never wavered, and he remained a dedicated historian of the industry he loved.
He first met Ann Smith at a restaurant in New London. The two married on July 16, 1966. The two raised four children and celebrated 58 years of marriage.
Roger appreciated slap-stick comedy. Likely sparked by a live show which he attended as a young child. He often remarked about the time he watched the Three Stooges live on stage! Roger's taste in food could be described as unique. He just loved a good limburger cheese sandwich with onion on rye bread. And never turned down a Cincinnati Chili.
Roger was selfless, and concerned for the wellbeing of his family and friends. To say he loved the railroad would be an understatement. Along with numerous sayings, his family will always remember Roger's voice as he often said "Watch the tracks!"
Above all, Roger cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife Ann (Smith) Weaver, who faithfully cared for him in his final days. He will be deeply missed by his children Brian Weaver (Joni Stierhoff), Brad (Jennifer) Weaver, Tammy (Wesley) McChristy-Weaver, and Troy (Jennifer) Weaver; grandchildren Mackenzie and Matthew Weaver, Aubrey, Gavin, and Grayson Weaver, Caleb Weaver, Alex McChristy (Kam Yahney), Lydia, and Zach McChristy, and Gage, Carter and Anna Weaver; siblings Kevin (Kathy) Heileman, Sharon (Jim) Singer and Marilyn (Henry) Eng; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and a large circle of railroad friends including his special friends Bobby Faulds, Dick Halsey and Steve Wadley.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents Ted and Catherine June Weaver, his sister and brother-in-law Veronica Jane Marsh and Ted Marsh.
The Weaver family will receive friends Sunday March 30, 2025 from 1-4 pm in the Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel, 2553 Lexington Ave, Mansfield OH 44904 where funeral services honoring Roger's life will begin at 4 pm. Private graveside services will be in Mansfield Memorial Park cemetery in Ontario, Ohio.
Memorial contributions in Roger's honor may be made to Southern Care Hospice or the Richland County Humane Society.
Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel, is honored to serve Roger's family. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit SnyderFuneralHomes.com