The Fox River Trolley museum mourns the passing of Jon Duerr, who died peacefully in his home on February 13.
Mr. Duerr was an accomplished biologist, who started his career teaching biology at Waubonsee Community College and joined the Kane County Forest Preserve District in 1985 serving nearly 20 years as assistant superintendent, superintendent, director of field services, and executive director until his retirement in 2004. During Mr. Duerr’s tenure with the Kane County Forest Preserve district, he oversaw many advancements, including more than doubling the space under its protection.
Mr. Duerr also holds a dear spot in the heart of our museum. It is thanks to him that we were able to complete the Blackhawk extension in June 2002. He saw an opportunity to enhance the experience in the forest preserve that would eventually come to bear his name by allowing us to extend our tracks into it, allowing a unique experience of riding a vintage trolley through it. Starting in 1999 we worked with him to find the best route to extend our line, and with his love of nature he picked a route through the forest preserve to allow passengers to see its natural beauty. Thanks to his working with us, riders at our museum are able to continue past Coleman Grove, the original end of the line at the museum, all the while allowing riders to see the forest preserve from the train.
A celebration of Mr. Duerr’s life was held in the Jon Duerr Forest Preserve near Blackhawk Station a few weeks ago on May 18. To help honor him, we offered complimentary trolley rides to those who came to pay their respects so that they could see a piece of his legacy. His memory will live on in our museum through the gratitude of all of our volunteers and passengers.
Photo credit: Isaiah Irlbacker