A Tribute to Brother Jack Shaver

The labor movement lost one of its steadfast champions with the passing of Jackie “Jack” Verlyn Shaver. For decades, Jack dedicated himself to the service of railroad workers, their families, and the principles of unionism that have guided generations of transportation employees.

Jack’s career of service stretched so far back that it predates not just SMART-TD but the United Transportation Union itself. He hired out on the railroad in the fall of 1960 as a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen Lodge 30. Since then, Jack has been known for carrying forward the values of solidarity, dignity, and brotherhood through every chapter of our union’s history. Through organizational changes, political battles, legislative fights, and countless challenges facing railroad workers, Jack remained committed to the same cause: protecting working people and strengthening the union that represented them.

For many in SMART-TD and its predecessor organizations, Jack was far more than a leader. He was a mentor. He understood that unions are not built by titles or offices, but by people willing to invest in the next generation. Whether it was a newly hired railroader learning the ropes or one of the labor movement’s most senior elected leaders, Jack always made time to share his knowledge, offer guidance, and encourage others to grow. His reputation as a trusted counselor extended throughout the union, including to former UTU President Al Chesser, who often relied on Jack’s judgment and experience.

As SMART-TD First Vice President Brent Leonard recalled, when he was a young railroader with strong opinions and sharp criticisms, Jack did not dismiss him. Instead, he challenged him to transform that energy into constructive leadership. That approach defined Jack’s character. He saw potential in others and believed it was his responsibility to help them develop it.

Former SMART-TD Illinois State Legislative Director and Federal Railroad Administration Administrator Joe Szabo remembered Jack as both a mentor and a father figure. When Szabo was a young State Director, Jack shared not only his knowledge of railroading, politics, and the legislative process, but also his wisdom about leadership itself. He encouraged others to grow, to serve, and to carry forward the mission of the union. His influence can be seen in the careers and accomplishments of countless leaders who followed in his footsteps.

Former Colorado State Director Rick Johnson described Jack as someone who changed the trajectory of lives. As a union brother and mentor, Jack was unapologetically committed to the workers he represented. His guiding principles were simple but unwavering: family, union, and safety. He understood that every legislative battle, every safety initiative, and every contract fight ultimately came down to protecting the livelihoods and well-being of working railroaders.

Current Colorado State Safety and Legislative Director Carl Smith echoed those sentiments, saying that Colorado, SMART-TD, and the entire rail labor movement lost a great leader in Jack Shaver. Smith noted that Jack demonstrated the right way to lead for decades, maintaining an unwavering focus on the safety and quality of life of his brothers and sisters above all else. That commitment was reflected in everything he accomplished throughout a long and distinguished career and remains an example for future generations of union leaders to follow.

Those who knew Jack consistently speak of his humility. Despite his accomplishments and decades of service as both the Colorado State Director and as the President of the National Association of State Directors, he never forgot where he came from. He expected leaders to carry themselves with dignity, to respect the members they served, and to remember that leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege. He believed in doing things the right way, even when it was not the easy way.

Jack Shaver leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured solely by positions held, years served, or legislative accomplishments. His true legacy lives on in the people he mentored, the workers he protected, and the principles he embodied. From the newest members entering the industry to the leaders entrusted with guiding our organization, generations of railroaders benefited from his counsel and example. The causes he fought for remain the causes we champion today. As we continue that work, we honor his memory by following the example he set: leading with humility, serving with integrity, and never forgetting where we came from.

Family, friends, and union brothers and sisters will have an opportunity to honor Jack’s life and legacy at a graveside service on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Fort Logan National Cemetery, located at 4400 W. Kenyon Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80236. In recognition of Jack’s decades of service to railroad workers, SMART-TD, and the broader labor movement, all SMART-TD members who wish to attend are welcome to join in paying their respects and celebrating the life of a man whose leadership, mentorship, and commitment to working people left a lasting mark on our organization.

Rest in peace, Brother Shaver. Your life’s work helped move the line forward, and your legacy will continue to guide those who follow.