Jonas is organization’s youngest president
The East Troy Electric Railroad has appointed Ryan Jonas as president of the railroad and Bernie Van Dinter as chairman of the board.
At 23, Jonas is the youngest certified operator and president in the history of the organization.
“It’s an honor to serve as president of the East Troy Electric Railroad,” said Jonas.
“I’m looking forward to doing my part in leading the railroad into its 106th year of consecutive operation. I also hope to introduce the railroad to young adults interested in historic trains and those that have an affinity for maintaining the past so it can be shared with future generations.”
The not-for-profit railroad, one of only three electric interurban railways in the United States that have maintained electric operations for more than 100 years, continues to be operated and managed by a legion of volunteers committed to the operation and preservation of historic trolleys and interurban railcars.
Jonas, a resident of Greendale, is the assistant director of technology at Messmer Catholic Schools in Milwaukee.
He was previously a network technician at Greendale Public Schools.
Jonas was the recipient of the Youth Service to the Church award from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in 2009.
Jonas has served as a volunteer at the East Troy Electric Railroad for the past six years holding a variety of leadership roles, including director and assistant director of operations, dinner train manager, director of technology, webmaster and train operator.
Van Dinter, 79, has been a volunteer at the railroad since 1994.
He has previously served as the organization’s director and secretary and has spearheaded numerous campaigns, including fundraising, membership development and the reconstruction of four highway crossings.
Van Dinter’s professional career includes 40 years at Wisconsin Electric Power Company.
He currently resides in Greendale.
“Ryan has done a tremendous job since he came onboard six years ago,” said Van Dinter.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming other young adults that are interested in ensuring the longevity of the museum and playing a pivotal role in one of Wisconsin’s more unique attractions.”
Jonas and Van Dinter replace outgoing president and chairman Charles Damaske and John Giove, respectively.
About the railroad
Home to over 20 rail treasures including open cars, locomotives, streetcars and interurban coaches, the East Troy Electric Railroad operates 10-mile round trip excursions from its historic depot and museum in East Troy to the turn of the century-styled terminal at the renowned Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago.
The railroad operates Memorial Day through October.
For more information, visit www.easttroyrr.org or call (262) 642-3263.
