Lew English, co-founder of Bowser Manufacturing Company in Montoursville, Pa. died on Friday, February 3rd. He was 93 years old. Lew was a member of the National Model Railroad Association Hall of Fame.
The Bowser product line is extensive. Initially, emphasis was placed primarily on HO gauge items, but over the years, offerings expanded to include a number of O Gauge pieces as well. For years, Bowser turntables were ubiquitous in the hobby, and for streetcar aficionados, Bowser trolleys plied the rails on home layouts across the country.
In addition to building trains, Lew owned and managed English's Model Railroad Supply in Montoursville. His store was, and still is, one of the most comprehensive model railroad shops anywhere. If English's doesn't have it, they will get it. If one's trains need to be repaired , English's is the place to go. Moved two years ago, a short distance from it's original location, the store is now bigger and better than ever.
Lew loved trains of all sizes and gauges. He was an avid collector of toy trains and between he and his brother Al, who predeceased him, they amassed world class collections. Both men saw trains as toys to be played with and no matter the value or level of rarity, their trains rode the rails under their own power. Visits to see these collections were always memorable.
It was always fun to visit with Lew and spend time in his company at the store or at home. He will be missed by all who knew him. He was a credit to our hobby. Lew's full obituary was published in the Williamsport Sun-Gazette.
Edited by the webmaster to add the link to the Obit.
