Wolfgang Richter, co-creator of LGB Trains, dies

Wolfgang Richter, longtime leader of toymaker E.P. Lehmann and co-developer (with his brother Eberhard) of LGB trains, passed away on Wednesday, family sources report. No other details are available at this time, but those who wish to express their condolences may do so via an e-mail to wolfgang.lgb.richter@outlook.com

The Richter brothers introduced their G scale trains in 1968, reviving interest in no. 1 gauge trains. From the beginning, they intended the trains to be used outdoors as well as indoors, and the weather-resistant quality of the trains was the catalyst for the development of the garden railway hobby as it is known today.  Richter's own irrepressible good humor and signature "thumbs up" gesture became trademarks of the brand every bit as well known as the firm's colorful red and green boxes. He was also known for the joy he took in talking with his customers and for his insistence offering high quality products, even in starter sets.