TRAIN SINGER GREG SCHINDEL HAS FINISHED HIS JOURNEY

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The Mendocino County community mourns the loss of Greg Schindel, the cherished Skunk Train Singer, who passed away on June 12, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg was not only a local legend but also a beloved figure among tourists visiting Fort Bragg, California.

For over a year, Greg fought valiantly against his illness, during which the community rallied to support him and his family. Fundraisers, gatherings, and heartfelt gestures of solidarity became a testament to the deep affection and respect the community held for him. His wife and family received an outpouring of support as friends and neighbors came together, hoping for his recovery.

Greg Schindel's legacy is deeply intertwined with the Skunk Train, where his music brought joy to countless passengers. Tourists from near and far delighted in the surprise of encountering the Skunk Train Singer, whose array of instruments and enchanting performances created unforgettable memories. His talent and warm spirit also inspired his son, Malakai, who carries forward his musical heritage.

Although Greg wasn’t always the Train Singer, his impact on the community spans decades. Before creating the beloved character, “Mr. Schindel” was adored by hundreds of elementary school children as the Visual and Performing Arts Director for the Willits Unified School District. He continued to perform at educational assemblies and museums throughout Northern California, sharing his love of music and the arts with young audiences.

Greg received his early education at a boarding school in Exeter, New Hampshire, and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Sonoma State University. In the 1960s and 70s, he was active in the Southern California music scene, developing his unique style of "Northern California Transcendental Folk Jazz." As the lead singer and songwriter for the musical group "Kindred Souls," Greg crafted thoughtful lyrics about life in the country, love, and personal experiences.

True to his heart, Greg fell in love and started a family, which he regarded as his greatest accomplishment. Over the years, his family grew, and his musical talent blossomed into the multifaceted character beloved by so many today.

In June 2023, the Skunk Train demonstrated their unwavering support for Greg by donating all ticket sales and concessions to aid in his cancer treatments. This act of kindness highlighted the profound bond between Greg and the Skunk Train family.

According to his website, trainsinger. com, Greg’s music has the power to make you feel good deep in your soul. He continued to write original music, overlaying his amazing voice with meaningful words and the haunting tones of harmonica over his own guitar strumming. Among his creations are train songs, including the fun and lively “Whoopie! What a Ride.”

Accompanied by his quick guitar-picking fingers, autoharp, and six harmonicas (including the World’s Tiniest Harmonica), Greg’s commanding voice projected a diverse collection of train songs, interactive chants, and ballads about the dangers of life on the railroad. Greg Schindel created Train Singer in 1988, a character that has become an integral part of his legacy.

Additionally, the congregation of St. Francis in the Redwoods Episcopal Church had been blessed with his leadership as the director of hymns and music since 1988. Greg’s contributions have been described as “the heart of the congregation,” sending up praises in song.

Greg’s most recent endeavor was hosting his own radio show, “Bipolar Express,” on KLLG 97.9 in Willits, CA. Known for his engaging personality, Greg provided commentary on relevant topics and music every week, leaving listeners in stitches of laughter. The show aired over 150 episodes, showcasing his enduring talent and connection to the community.

Greg Schindel's impact extends beyond the local community, touching the hearts of many across the country. His music, kindness, and spirit will be forever remembered. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, children, and family during this difficult time.

Greg's passing is a significant loss for Mendocino County, but his legacy as a musician and a beloved community member will endure. His memory will live on through the countless stories and fond memories of those who had the privilege of experiencing his talent and generosity. One online person wrote, “They should make a bronze statue of this man, he is a legend!”

From his GoFundMe page created over a year ago, his wife Donna Schindel writes an update, "Early on the morning of July 12, 2024, our dear Greg finished his journey and passed into the light. He has been mostly unconscious for the last six days. Then around 5:30 a.m. he peacefully stopped breathing. We will have a funeral, and a celebration of his wonderful life later, probably in the fall. There aren't enough words to express my gratitude for the support we've received from this remarkable community. You carried us over this dreadful storm. He is not suffering anymore. He is flying free."

For more information and to share your condolences, visit the Train Singer’s Facebook or GoFundMe page. Greg Schindel will be missed, but his music and spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

Courtesy of Daniella Sands

Mendocino Action News

Photo and data source: www.trainsinger.com