The Cody Ron Foundation was born from a deeply personal experience of loss and the realization that many children fall through the cracks of traditional support systems.
Remembering Cody Ron Blaquiere
Cody Ron Blaquiere was more than a railroad worker – he was a devoted father, a cherished son, and a man who gave his all to both his work and his family. His dedication to the railroad industry was matched only by his love for his six children and his commitment to providing for those he cared about.
Cody's life was defined by hard work, integrity, and an unwavering sense of responsibility. He understood the sacrifices that railroad workers make – long hours away from home, dangerous conditions, and the physical toll of the job. Yet he faced each day with determination and pride in his work.
His legacy lives on through this foundation, ensuring that the children of railroad workers who have passed are never forgotten and always supported.
A Daughter's Mission
Kaylene Tinsley, one of Cody's six children, experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating grief and loss within systems that weren't designed for every family's unique circumstances. After losing her father, she discovered that traditional support programs often had strict eligibility requirements that excluded many children who desperately needed help.
When her family's situation changed due to remarriage and custody arrangements, Kaylene found herself falling through the cracks of support systems that should have been there for her. This painful experience opened her eyes to a larger problem: countless other children of railroad workers were being overlooked for similar reasons.
Rather than accept this injustice, Kaylene chose to honor her father's memory by creating the support system she wished had existed. She founded The Cody Ron Foundation with a simple but powerful mission: no child should be forgotten or excluded from support because their circumstances don't fit a predetermined mold.
"My father taught me the value of hard work and taking care of others. This foundation is my way of continuing his legacy and ensuring that no child feels as alone as I did."
— Kaylene Tinsley, Founder
Our Journey
The Loss
Cody Ron Blaquiere passes away, leaving behind his six children and a legacy of dedication to the railroad industry.
The Realization
It becomes clear that many children of railroad workers are excluded from traditional support systems due to family circumstances, time elapsed, or other factors beyond their control.
The Foundation
The Cody Ron Foundation is established with a mission to support all children of railroad workers who have lost parents, regardless of their circumstances.
Growing Impact
Programs expand to include care baskets, pen-pal letters, and Survivors Joy Day events, reaching more families across the railroad community.
The Future
The foundation continues to grow, building a community where every child knows they are loved, supported, and never forgotten.
Honoring the Railroad Community
Love Overcoming Loss
What started as a personal mission to honor her father's memory has grown into a movement to support all children of railroad workers who have lost their parents. We believe that every child deserves support, regardless of their family structure or circumstances.
Today, we continue to build on Cody's legacy by creating programs that bring joy, connection, and dignity to children who need it most. Our story is one of love overcoming loss, and community rebuilding what was broken.