Bill Neatherlin EDGETA Branch 13 - 1928 - 1995

Bill Neatherlin was one of the inspirations and driving forces that made Br.13 the successful club it is today. He joined our club in 1974. Over the years Bill collected more than 50 engines and several tractors. He also liked trains and made several trips to ride on historic trains in various parts of the country.

Bill served as editor of The Chugger, our newsletter, in 1983 & 84. He was president of Br.13 for four years, 1986-89, during a period of great growth of the club. Bill was national president of EDGE&TA for one term, 1988-89. He also was chairman of the 1993 national show and meeting of the EDGE&TA at Grass Valley, CA, producing one of the best national shows in memory. Finally, he was Br.13’s National Director in 1994-95.

Bill was born in 1928 in Beaver, OK. At the age of 17 he moved to California where he worked at Placerville Lumber Co, doing everything from felling trees to general yard work. Eventually he became sawyer and in 1960 he helped construct and then operated the first automated sawmill in California at Smith Flat (Placerville).

Bill met his wife Dollie while living in New Mexico at the age of 14. After several years courting, they married in 1947. He is survived by Dollie, two daughters, Karen and Kathy, four grandsons and one great grandson.

Bill was very friendly and outgoing and enjoyed the fellowship and camaraderie of his friends in Br.13. He attended many of the national shows and had friends in many other branches. He believed in the gas engine hobby and worked hard to make it grow and be fun. He was always supportive of new members and went out of his way to help when he could. Bill died on April 18, 1995. We were privileged to have been in his company and all of his friends will feel his absence for a long time to come.