J. G. "Johnny Mack" McDowell retired December 10, ending a 37 year railroad career.
Johnny started work as a Switchman with the Texas and Pacific Railway on April 30, 1960.
Johnny graduated from Carter-Riverside High School in Fort Worth in 1954. He married his sweetheart Ann Marshall in 1955. They have a boy and a girl and five grandchildren ages 15, 14, 9, 9, and 7 years of age.
Johnny says he has been a yardmaster at least seven times. He took a regular yardmasters job from 1965 to about 1985.
"The only discipline I ever received was just before I retired when I received one of Union Pacific's infamous Level IIs."
"I've worked for some good people," Johnny adds, "Starting with Dick Davidson when he was Assistant Trainmaster and later Superintendent, Ron Short, Bill Richmond, Lee Riggs, Bob Stephan and Joe Whalen, to name a few."
"I called Dick and ask if he could come to my retirement party. He told me he'd like to, but he was up to his rear in allegators at this time. He did wish me a happy retirement."
Johnny says, "The railroad has been good to me. My family has made a good living from it and I've been able to educate my kids. I've never had a personal injury. I am leaving with everything I started out with except my hair."
A party was held in Johnny's honor at the Crest Building. There were refreshments for all and Joe Whalen presented him with a UP Gold Watch. About 75 persons attended a party later.
About 125 persons attended a party for him Saturday December 13, at Katy Lynn's Club.
Johnny adds, "I can't think of another job I'd rather have had."
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