It is with deep regret and much sadness that we report to the membership on the death of Mr.Chris Rohlfing. Chris passed away on July 21, 2003 after a lengthy bout with cancer. For many members of the Desert Division this news is very hard to accept, for less than a month ago we were socializing and exchanging pleasantries with Chris and his wife Marlene at the TCA Convention in Ontario,California. Chris was one of the Desert Division's "out of State members" whose infectious enthusiasm and love for this hobby far outweighed the distance he lived from our boundaries. Chris loved his trains, the TCA, and everyone associated with the two. It seemed as the only thing he loved more was Marlene and his immediate family.

At the time of his passing, Chris was the sitting President of the Mid West Division of the TCA. Just last year, Chris and wife Marlene were the guiding lights to the presentation of the 48th TCA Convention held in the Chicago, Illinois area. Chris will be sorely missed by all who knew him, and by those who just knew his name. We wish to extend to Marlene and the entire Rohlfing Family our sincerest condolences and best wishes at this difficult time in their lives. Marlene has requested that in lieu of flowers, should anyone wish to do so, a donation to the TCA National Toy Train Museum should be made in Chris' name and memory.