Donald F. “Monk” Markgraf, a former UTU general chairperson on Chicago & North Western Railway (now part of Union Pacific) died March 3 at age 81.
A native of Antigo, Wis., Markgraf hired on at C&NW as a switchman in Milwaukee, and initially was a member of UTU predecessor Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen.
He later became a member of UTU Local 322 and was elected its chairperson in 1960. In 1983, he was elected vice general chairperson of GO 225, and general chairperson in 1983. Markgraf retired in 1991.
Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Betty, a son and daughter, and two grandchildren. The family requests that memorials in Markgraf’s name be made to the Ronald McDonald House.
Related News
- The Makings of a Railroad Merger
- Transit Ambassadors: Protecting Riders’ and Operators’ Safety
- East Palestine Documentary Emphasizes Fight for Rail Safety
- Statement from SMART-TD on the Proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Merger
- 1% Declares War On 2-PC & SMART-TD
- Report Blocked Crossings with New FRA Digital Tool
- LAST CALL: Submit Your Photos for 2026 Calendar Today!
- Heroic Act on the Rails: SMART-TD Brother Burned while Saving Crewmate
- Unions Join Together to Fix Overtime Tax Loophole for Transportation Workers
- Help Amtrak Conductor, Local 166 Member Get Back to Work