NORMAN M. BRENNEMAN died August 17, 1994, at Wellman, Iowa. A
farmer most of his life, he was always fascinated by all types of
engines, especially steam-powered ones during his early life. As a
lad, he experimented by building fires under varied containers of
water, attempting to build steam pressure. He loved steam
locomotives and always preferred trains over airplanes, even after
diesel power took over.
Norman started farming with horses and a John Deere ‘D.’
In 1935, he purchased a new John Deere ‘A,’ and soon
switched it from steel to rubber. This was the first rubber-tired
tractor in the community, and he enjoyed telling how skeptical some
of the neighbors were of such a radical change.
In the late ’50s, Norman started collecting gas engines. He
had a special liking for Gads. During the ’60s and 70s, he
exhibited several Gads and other engines yearly at the Old
Threshers Reunion at Mount Pleasant, Iowa. He and his wife usually
camped on the grounds for the Reunion and had a good time
together.
Norman always had an eye for fly wheels and liked them best on
old engines, gas or steam, and on John Deere tractors. In later
years, he enjoyed driving his restored ‘A’ in local
parades.
Norman is survived by Katie, his wife of 61 years, three
children, six grand children and one great-grandson.
Goodbye, Dad! So long for now, Grandpa!
Submitted by his son, Keith Brenneman, 3511 East Baseline #1039,
Phoenix, Arizona 85040.
It saddens me to report the passing of a true legend, HARRY
‘PINK’ WOODMANSEE, 91, who passed away September 10, 1994.
He was born on April 18, 1903.
Harry was quite well known nationwide and touched many, many
lives. He was the most knowledgeable person about steam engines I
have ever met. Not only was he a ‘GREAT’ engineer but he
was also a great story teller. I spent many an hour listening to
his stories of bygone days. Harry, Ralph (Harry’s brother), my
dad and I traveled to many steam shows together, and I certainly
enjoyed his company.
There are a lot of stories that can be told about Harry, and at
a later date I will share some of my fondest memories.
Harry always liked to put on a good show. He liked to belt up to
the separator blindfolded, and of course to climb the high
ramp!
Steam engine fans have lost a wonderful man, but the legend and
memories will live forever. I consider it a great honor to have had
him as a friend.
Submitted by Larry Mix, 2075 Coburn Road, Hastings, Michigan
49058.
WILLIAM M. ‘MAJOR’ BRAGG, 98, of Atwood, Illinois,
passed from this life September 20, 1994.
We will miss his stories of farm life of the early 1900s, as
well as his wit and humor. He always had information to share with
those around him. Major was instrumental in the formation of many
shows and could always be seen parading his 1917 Heider tractor, as
well as sawing shingles at Rockome Gardens.
For the past 15 years, Major had been part of the Douglas County
Historical Festival at Arcola, Illinois, where he was loved by old
and young alike. He will be sadly missed by all.
Submitted by Lloyd and Barbara Dean, 211 N. Ash, Arthur,
Illinois 61911.
DUANE E. CLEGG, 42, died September 16, 1994. He was born
September 9, 1952, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, to William A. Jr. and
Cleo May Beaty Clegg.
On March 27, 1981, he married Florence McNall, who survives.
Duane worked as a certified biomedical electronic technician at
Lima [Ohio] Memorial Hospital. He was a member of the Fraternal
Order of Eagles; Northwest Ohio Antique Machinery Association;
Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association; Drake County Steam
Threshing Association; Flat Rock Creek Gas Engine, Steam and
Tractor Club; Allen County Sportsmen and Farmers Association;
Buckeye Farm Antiques Inc.; Marion County Steam Threshers
Association; Van Wert Old Fashioned Farmers Association; Maumee
Valley Steam Threshers; and Miami Valley Steam Threshers
Association.
Survivors also include a sister, Noritta A. Roush of West
Liberty.
Submitted by Bill Steinman, 1101 Broad Avenue, Findlay, Ohio
45840.
