Back in June, when it was announced that I was becoming a pastor, I received a very interesting email. It read something like this: “Hi Father, I was at Mass at Holy Ghost when Fr. Zinno announced that he was being transferred. He went on to explain that the new pastor, who was going to replace him was Fr. Finelli. When I heard the name, I knew it was familiar, but I was not sure from where. After thinking for a while, I realized we share the same hobby, I am a Live Steamer and I have been on your website. Sincerely, Bob Delisle.”

It was not only a surprise to to him, but it was also to me. I thought it would be great to have a fellow Live Steamer in my new parish. Most of us live a distance from other members of the hobby, so to have someone so close and a member of my parish building a locomotive and be able to share our hobby together is great.

Since that time I have had the opportunity to visit Bob’s shop. Bob has a 9″ Grizlzey Lathe, a combined Grizzley Mill/ Drill, a Rockwell drill press, a grinder, ban saw and compressor.

Bob is currently building the Pennsylvania A3 that was featured in Live Steam Magazine, by Kozo Hiraoka. He began his project in March 2002 and is really making great progress. He has completed the tender trucks, frame and tank. This is Bob’s first locomotive and he is doing a super job. Take a look at his work and you can see his is a perfectionist. Although this is is first engine, he has already built four stationary engines which he ran for me off his compressor.

Bob is a member of the Waushakum Live Steamers, and I can’t wait to see him steam his Pennsylvania A3 and travel our high line.