CLEVELAND, October 29 — Former BLE Amtrak General Chairman Ronald E. Wiggins passed away on October 25 after a long, brave battle with multiple sclerosis. He was 68.
He joined the Brotherhood on May 1, 1977, and held continuous membership until his passing. He was a member of Division 483 in Philadelphia, Pa. He began his railroad career as a Locomotive Fireman for the Penn Central Railroad, eventually working for Amtrak.
He served the Brotherhood in various capacities over his career and held the offices of Local Chairman and General Chairman. Due to health concerns, he stepped down from the General Chairman’s position in 1998 after more than 20 years of service to the Brotherhood, including the final 10 as Amtrak General Chairman.
“On behalf of the 57,000 members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen throughout the entire United States, I extend deepest sympathies to the Wiggins family,” BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce said. “Please find comfort in knowing that you are in our thoughts and prayers, and that we are grateful for Ron’s service on behalf of our Amtrak members.”
He is survived by his wife, Sandy Wiggins, daughter Evonne (O””Connor) and son Ronnie Jr.
Evonne notified the National Division of his passing. “The BLE was a big part of his life for many years,” she said. “He loved the Brotherhood and the men he represented.”
The viewing is scheduled for Saturday, October 30, at 11 a.m. at the Blake-Doyle Funeral Home, 226 West Collings Ave., Collingswood, N.J., 08108, (856) 854-2570. Funeral services will follow at noon.