Menno L Kliewer, son of Peter J. and Susana Buller Kliewer was born on Dec. 15, 1921 in Henderson Nebraska and passed away to his eternal home on May 18, 2001 reaching the age of 79 years. His parents were immigrants from Russia during the great Mennonite exodus of the 1870’s. Menno was deeply influenced with his Mennonite heritage and cherished it during his entire life. Menno received his elementary education in a one-room schoolhouse, graduated from Henderson High School in 1940 and later attended Tabor College. Menno served his country for 3 1/2 years during World War II.
Menno was united in marriage to Ann Fast in 1947. They made farming their career in Henderson Nebraska until 1962 and then relocated to Reedley, CA. Together they had 4 sons, Ralph, Paul, Gene and Lynn. He had nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Menno has been our “story teller” for many years and many of us have shared in his experiences throughout both his childhod and his adult life. He has written many stories about the “Dust Bowl Era” and the “Great Depression”. Menno had many accomplishments in life. He served as Auction Chairman of the West Coast Mennonite Relief Sales for 20 years, he served as a Sunday School Teacher along with many other positions in the Reedley Mennonite Brethren Church, six years on the School Board and then in later years became greatly interested in collecting, restoring and exhibiting antique engines.
Menno was an honorary member of E.D.G.E.&.T.A. Branch 8 and served as secretary/treasurer for this branch for 5 years.
In 1986 Menno was elected National Secretary/Treasurer of the Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association and held this position until 1998. The organization was still small with only 21 Branches when he took on this position. Menno was a hard worker, a dedicated officer/director for 12 years and because of his efforts helped to make the organization what it is today. He has touched the heart of many through his stories, personal friendship and willingness to help others.
Menno was proud to display his many plaques on his office wall commemorating his many accomplishments and contributions throughout his life. Among these was his plaque for being inducted into the Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association Hall of Fame.
HE WILL BE MISSED!
