In a world where chance encounters often pass unnoticed, two strangers met on a luxury train journey across Canada and forged a remarkable friendship that transformed their lives. This is the story of Savery Moore and Giselle Ruemke - two widowed travelers who found solace, companionship, and a new lease on life aboard VIA Rail’s iconic Canadian train.
A Dream Deferred and a Journey Begun
Savery Moore and his wife Jan had long dreamed of traveling across Canada by rail, waking to sunrises over endless tracks, and marveling at snow-capped peaks through the train’s glass dome. But life and work in advertising kept their dream on hold. When they both retired in their 60s, they planned to splurge on a luxury “prestige” class ticket for the four-day journey from Vancouver to Toronto.
Tragically, Jan was diagnosed with aggressive lung cancer and passed away within 16 months. Heartbroken, Savery shelved his travel plans - until years later, he decided to honor Jan’s memory by taking the trip alone.
An Unexpected Meeting on the Rails
Boarding The Canadian in April 2024, Savery was surprised to find himself the only prestige class passenger - until he spotted a woman, Giselle, quietly reading in one of the reserved seats. Giselle, a French-Canadian in her 50s, was also traveling solo after losing her husband Dave to cancer the previous year.
Though hesitant at first, Savery invited Giselle to join him for coffee during a stopover in Edmonton. Their shared experiences of grief and a mutual love for train travel sparked an immediate connection. Over the next days, they dined and explored the train together, gradually opening up about their pasts and finding comfort in each other’s company.
A Friendship That Transcended Grief
By the time the train reached Toronto, Savery and Giselle’s initial reserved interactions had blossomed into genuine friendship. They parted ways with a promise to stay in touch - “au revoir,” Giselle said, signaling hope for future reunions.
Their texts turned into phone calls, and soon they were planning a two-month rail adventure across North America, from San Francisco to Halifax and back to Vancouver. Along the way, they discovered complementary strengths: Savery’s knack for planning and Giselle’s talent for uncovering hidden gems.
Healing Through Shared Journeys
Their travels deepened their bond, providing both with a renewed zest for life and a supportive partnership. They shared stories of their late spouses, helping each other process grief and regret. Giselle described feeling like she was carrying her husband Dave with her on their journeys, while Savery found joy in fulfilling the dreams he once shared with Jan.
Their friendship also brought practical support: Giselle helped Savery navigate health challenges, and Savery’s steady presence gave Giselle confidence to embrace new experiences.
New Horizons and Lifelong Companions
In spring 2025, the duo embarked on a month-long European adventure, marking Savery’s first trip outside North America. Together, they explored riverboats and railways, discovering new places and revisiting old favorites through each other’s eyes.
Their story is a testament to the power of travel to heal wounds, forge unexpected connections, and open doors to new chapters - even after profound loss.
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Savery and Giselle’s journey reminds us that sometimes, the most meaningful friendships begin on a train seat reserved for strangers - and that the tracks of life can lead us to healing, hope, and lifelong companionship.
