William Zimmerman, 79, of Garrison North Dakota died December 3,
1969 in a local hospital. He had a Minneapolis threshing rig that
was bought in 1915 and used then set for many years and put in
working order about 1961. From then on it was at many Shows. After
Bill’s long illness as a diabetic and the loss of his legs he
still attended the Makoti show each year to see his engine run
A face with a warm friendly smile will be absent this year, for
the first time, from numerous reunions here in the MidWest.
Martin M. Rowenauer, 73, died April 17, 1970 at his country
estate, located in the rolling hill country of East Central
Missouri on the fringe of the Ozarks, the land of his youth and the
country he loved so well.
Martin as he was known to many, grew to manhood in the leisurely
Ozark Hill Country and throughout his life a quiet, calm and
contented atmosphere, synonymous to the area was predominant in his
nature. His love for the traction engine was ever present and he
cherrished the swaying forth and back momentum and the sharp echo
of the engine’s exhaust.
During his working life, using his natural talents and skill he
became a very fine machinist ever clinging to his fascination for
the reciprocating steam engine.
In the years after traction engines passed into the hands of
admiring, fascinated enthusiasts Martin greatly assisted many with
their individual problems, giving generously of his skill.
His presence in life with his warm, friendly touch and cheery
greeting will be missed by many.
He was in regular attendance at numerous reunions across Kansas,
Missouri, Iowa and Illinois.
Earlier he had owned an M. Rumley Engine and later acquired a
rear geared Keck Gonderman. For some years the latter was his pride
and joy.
