Rail enthusiasts lost a fine photographer and author Thursday, April 30, 2015 when Joe G. Collias passed away from a heart attack sustained Monday, April 27. He had just turned 87 on Saturday, April 25.

Most of his rail photography covered the Midwest where he lived, though he did venture both East and West. He wrote two books, The Last of Steam and The Search for Steam that featured his work along with those of others. His book Frisco Power was published in two editions. He also wrote Mopac Power and Katy Power. The latter was a collaboration with Raymond George, Jr. His photographic work was published in other books and magazines.

Not only was he at the right place and time to make photos of steam in action, but the quality of his work remained uniformly high. Finally, he was willing to share his art and knowledge. He will be missed.