IHRA extends its heartfelt condolences on the passing of Professor Roderick Smith, Emeritus Professor, Imperial College London. | Archives | Report | IHRA -International High-speed Rail Association-

Messages from the IHRA community

Masafumi Shukuri, Chairman, IHRA

I am deeply shocked and saddened by the news of the sudden passing of our beloved Professor Smith. For over ten years since the establishment of IHRA, Professor Smith has shown us exceptional kindness and support. His precise and warm assistance has been instrumental in making IHRA what it is today, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.

As a moderator and speaker at IHRA forums and meetings, Professor Smith always shared his deep insights and knowledge with many participants. He consistently provided us with abundant ideas on how to have more fruitful discussions and advance the efforts of various countries. His contributions were incredibly valuable and dependable, and we at IHRA will always cherish them.

We will honor the many precious legacies Professor Smith left us and will continue to strive to enhance IHRA's activities. I am confident that all members of IHRA from various countries will never forget Professor Smith's bright and wonderful smile.

I sincerely pray for Professor Smith's eternal peace.

Masafumi Shukuri

Chairman, Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute, Japan

Chairman, Japan Maritime Center, Japan

Joseph P. Schmelzeis. Jr., Vice Chairman, IHRA

I am saddened deeply by the sudden passing of Professor Smith. It was only last December I had the joy of sharing dinner with him and his lovely wife Yayoi. My heart goes out to her. As a relative newcomer to IHRA, my association with Professor Smith began recently, but I was a major beneficiary of his kindness. At IHRA gatherings we would often sit together where he graciously and patiently shared his expertise and experience. I will strive to live up to his hopes for IHRA, and I will never forget his cheerful and generous character. May he rest in peace.

Joseph P. Schmelzeis. Jr.

Outside Director, Central Japan Railway Company, Japan

Torkel Patterson, Former Vice Chairman, IHRA

When I first learned about Professor Roderick Smith’s passing, I was shocked, I just couldn’t believe a man of his energy and enthusiasm could leave so quickly. That shock was mitigated when I learned that Professor Smith passed the way he lived: To the fullest (slipping on wet ground while hiking). Whether he was laughing or lecturing, he was deeply engaged and committed to whatever he was engaged in.

I have known Professor Smith since before IHRA was formed and IHRA was honored when he agreed to participate in our meetings. He was quite frequently a moderator in IHRA’s international forums and regular meetings. His preparation for moderating a meeting was legendary and included a few clever remarks and inside jokes. He was a strong proponent of the Shinkansen and did everything in his power to support it. He was beloved by the IHRA staff, meeting participants and by our interpreters, always taking time to appreciate everyone’s hard work.

Because of Roderick’s supporting and loving wife, Yayoi-san, Professor Smith loved Japan. He was also a keen observer of many places in the world trekking and photographing as he travelled. He loved mountains and natural places; but he was as easy at home in halls of power as he was in the classroom.

With gratitude Roderick, for your friendship, and for a life well lived.

Torkel Patterson

Shunzo Miyake, Director, IHRA

Allow me on behalf of East Japan Railway Company to convey my heartfelt condolences on the event of Professor Roderick Smith’s sudden passing. The tragic news of his passing took us by surprise and we were quite shocked and saddened to hear of it.

Well-loved for his warm-heartedness, integrity and professionalism, many among us also knew and were touched by him personally. I clearly remember our first meeting, being struck by his overall enthusiasm and wide knowledge of the Japanese Shinkansen system in particular, no doubt coming from his profound love for our country.

His great wit and wonderful sense of humor also always brought us joy, but we were also in great awe of his extensive knowledge of railways and dedication to their development around the world. Not only will his legacy not be forgotten, his name will be honored for generations to come. Further, we offer consolation and love to his family, friends, and all who have been touched by his work.

In deepest sympathy,

Shunzo Miyake

Senior Executive Officer, Director General of International Affairs Headquarters, East Japan Railway Company, Japan

Manabu Ishibashi, Director, IHRA

It is with profound sadness that we received the news of Professor Emeritus Roderick Smith's passing. A distinguished scholar and a cherished member of our community, Professor Smith dedicated his expertise and unwavering support to the International High-Speed Rail Association (IHRA) for the past decade. His contributions have been invaluable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Professor Smith's collaboration with Central Japan Railway Company began long before the establishment of IHRA. His insights and guidance have significantly advanced our shared goals, and we are deeply grateful for his years of dedication and service. On behalf of Central Japan Railway Company, I, Manabu Ishibashi, Vice President, extend our heartfelt thanks for his remarkable contributions.

Professor Smith's presence at IHRA events, always accompanied by his beloved wife, Yayoi-san, was a testament to his commitment and passion for high-speed rail. His warmth, wisdom, and kindness will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

We honor his memory and celebrate his life, knowing that his impact will be felt for many years to come.

Manabu Ishibashi

Corporate Officer & Executive Vice President, Central Japan Railway Company, Japan

David Howell, Senior Advisory Board Member, IHRA

The saddest loss. Roderick was the friendliest face, the wittiest mind and the shrewdest observer and analyst of the global railway scene. Catching up with him at IHRA meetings was sheer pleasure. He leaves a large gap in all our lives.

My deep condolences go to his family for their loss.

Rt. Hon. Lord Howell of Guildford, Former UK Transport Secretary of State

Chua Chong-Kheng, Senior Advisory Board Member (Observer), IHRA

Yee Boon Cheow, Technical Advisory Board Member (Observer), IHRA

On behalf of the Land Transport Authority (LTA), we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Professor Roderick Smith. His contributions to IHRA and the global rail community have left an enduring legacy.

Professor Smith’s profound understanding of the complexities of rail systems and his belief in the power of collaboration made him a visionary leader. He consistently reminded us of the importance of engaging people at every level - from policymakers and engineers to passengers and communities - ensuring that every voice was heard and considered in shaping transformative transport systems.

Professor Smith’s ability to effectively communicate the long-term opportunities of High-Speed Rail (HSR) while addressing the challenges it faces was highly impactful. His candid approach in dispelling misinformation about HSR left a lasting impression, as he effectively convinced both private and public sectors of HSR’s potential to drive sustained economic and social progress.

What set Professor Smith apart was his wit. His sharing of the lesser known historical facts behind the Shinkansen development in Japan and humorous anecdotes added an extra dimension to the IHRA meetings and forums. His warm smile and presence will be sorely missed. His ability to combine technical expertise with effective communication and a personable demeanour made him a truly memorable figure in the field of high-speed rail.

The loss of Professor Smith is deeply felt, but his insights and passion will continue to guide us in our work. His legacy serves as a reminder of the responsibility we all carry to create transport systems that are not only efficient and sustainable but also deeply rooted in the needs of society, in Singapore and beyond.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the entire IHRA community during this difficult time.

Chua Chong-Kheng

Senior Advisor, Land Transport Authority (LTA), Singapore

Yee Boon Cheow

Deputy Chief Executive (Infrastructure & Development), Land Transport Authority (LTA), Singapore

Danny Broad, Technical Advisory Board Member, IHRA

Professor Roderick Smith was the smiling and welcoming face at the IHRA Forums that I always looked for on arriving at the Forums. During the Forums, it was not only educational to be with Rod during the sessions and site visits, but also fun and enjoyable.

My sincere thanks to Rod for helping me with my first presentation for a panel discussion that I had to give at the first IHRA Forum I attended. He chaired the discussion that I participated in and with all his assistance prior to the Forum, the panel discussion went well (with Covid screens between us) including a bit of fun injected by Rod.

Rod's various presentations on bringing the "Hearts and Minds" along the high-speed rail journey where so important, constructive, and significant for all cities and countries considering high-speed rail.

I was so shocked to hear of his passing - he will be missed by all.

How lucky to have known such a wonderful man.

Danny Broad

Former Chairman, Australasian Railway Association, Australia

Chairman, TrackSAFE Foundation, Australia

Larry and Jill Kelterborn, Technical Advisory Board Member, IHRA

Roderick will be greatly missed by all the IHRA representatives and team members. Roderick was a major contributor to IHRA’s success with his in-depth knowledge and incredible ability to explain complex issues in a way everyone could understand. He was a very talented speaker and outstanding moderator that made every session he was involved with interesting and rewarding.

On a personal note, it was always enjoyable to meet and chat with Roderick at IHRA events. It was something I always looked forward to. Roderick had such a warm and friendly approach and an amazing sense of humour, particularly when he was in the company with board member’s wives. Jill and I are so saddened by his unexpected passing and will miss not seeing him at future IHRA events. Our hearts go out to his family and wonderful wife Yayoi who has been part of the IHRA family.

Larry and Jill Kelterborn

President, LDK Advisory Inc., Canada