Passing of Skip Salmon

Passing of Skip Salmon

Skip Salmon had a significant impact on the Roanoke Chapter and the preservation community at large. Skip was involved with the former Virginian Railway veterans over the years, hosting a dinner at the County Cookin’ on Brambleton for the vets and anyone who wanted to participate. It was a social evening, lots of fellowship, friendship and laughter. A number of us participated over time as we were able. Everybody paid their own way, and generally the next day or so, Skip would type up a report on what was discussed, who was there, and answers to any questions. Undoubtedly, this is one of the rare instances in which this material was documented.

Skip became more involved when the Virginian station burned the night of January 29, 2001, 45 years to the day of the last Virginian passenger train. The fire prompted a series of phone calls asking about the feasibility of saving the place, and ended with a group meeting organized by Alison Blanton and others. It resulted in the building being donated to the Roanoke Chapter in November 2002. Ken Miller was the project manager for a lengthy time, and Skip was one of the committee members. Ken had other responsibilities and stepped away from the lead role, which Skip and Jim Cosby took over. None of us could have guessed that it would take as long as it did.

But Skip and Jim’s perseverance and Skip’s determination to have a monument to the former Virginian employees made it a reality, and we sit here tonight.

As time passed, unfortunately, so did the Virginian veterans. The pandemic and low participation have finally stopped the “Takin 20” sessions. Skip also volunteered at the N&W Historical Society archives until he was tied up with the station restoration and devoted his time there.

Alas, Skip caught the westbound to the promised land last Saturday. Even though he did not work for the Virginian, he certainly was an honorary Virginian employee!

We’ll miss you, Skip.

Skip Salmon passed away on December 13th, 2025. His obituary is published by the Oakey’s Funeral Home located HERE