A graduate of California State University at Sacramento, Gray was instrumental in the initial organization of the railroad museum in the late 1970s and became CSRM director in 1990. In 1998, he was appointed state archivist for California, and in 2004 returned to the state parks as chief of its cultural resources division.
A historian with a deep understanding of railroading’s ties to American culture, Gray led CSRM to its status as the nation’s top railroad museum. Under his tutelage the museum not only boasted a rich collection and first-class facilities, it also reached out to the public with large events such as the Railfair celebration of 1991, reprised in 1999.
“Walt had an uncanny ability to connect wide-ranging historical dots to show how important railroading has been to all of us,” said Trains Publisher Kevin P. Keefe. “And when he talked about the lessons of history, it was always with exuberance and wit.”
State Parks Superintendent Cathy Taylor succeeded Gray in running the railroad museum and recalls the indomitable spirit of her friend and colleague.
“I’ll remember him as my mentor, best friend, counselor, and co-conspirator. Walter always said, ‘Life ain’t fair,’ and he believed it,” said Taylor. “When things got tough, he simply chalked it up and moved on, never cross and never a victim. This sensibility gave him the most wonderful ability to always see the good in people.”
A memory book will be available in the Museum Library beginning Saturday. All are welcome to record their favorite memories of Walter. There will be a Celebration of Walter Gray’s Life at the California State Railroad Museum on Saturday, June 2 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
