A Boilermaker's (Rail) Road to Recovery

We are friends and colleagues of Gary Bensman — his railroad family — and we’ve had the honor of working alongside him for over 50 years.

In February, while on a job site, Gary suffered a major cardiac event. He was airlifted to a hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and during the ordeal also suffered a stroke. He’s since undergone multiple surgeries, including a bypass to repair his aorta and a heart valve replacement. After weeks on a ventilator, Gary has shown remarkable strength in his recovery — but his journey is far from over.

As many of you know, Gary has been self-employed for most of his life. The cost of his care has quickly exceeded what Medicaid can cover, making it difficult for him to access the therapy and rehabilitation he needs, including physical therapy to walk again and rebuild his strength.

For a lifelong railroad man — especially a boilermaker — your body is part of your craft. But Gary’s work has always gone beyond steel and steam. A student of the last generation of American steam railroaders, Gary has devoted his life not only to restoring historic locomotives, but to preserving the stories and spirit of the Golden Age of Railroading and the Master Mechanics of the pre-computer age. His presence has been larger than life — evolving from an intimidating master of the trade to a warm-hearted storyteller, mentor, and living archive.

Gary has had a hand in nearly every major steam restoration project in the United States, and his impact can be found in the hands of the hundreds of railroaders, preservationists, engineers, firemen, and apprentices he’s guided.

We're seeking your help to cover Gary's current outstanding medical debt. Your support will go directly toward covering his medical expenses and the continued care he needs to recover and thrive. An escrow account has been set aside for these funds on Gary's behalf by the Donohue Law Firm of Crescent, PA.

- Kelly Lynch, Executive Director, Fort Wayne Railroad