The Home Machinist!

Fred Springer of Santa Fe has passed away after battling cancer for the last several years. He was the best friend a person could have. The 1" 0-4-0 he bought from John Enders was the first live steam locomotive I ever ran. In a move so typical of Fred he left it to John's grandson. When I visited him 3 weeks ago he showed me a project he was working on - a pair of 1" scale tank cars. I had rolled the shells for him back in 1974. He was friend to many live steamers around the country - indeed, around the world. He is survived by his wife Dale, daughters Kathy and Carol, and son Paul.

My heart is indeed very heavy with this not unexpected news, Marty.

I have known Fred for some years now, running into him in various locales, usually regaling a tale or two.

He had a career in the oil business, was in live steam as many us us know, and was an avid railfan and photographer.

Many train and locomotive photographs I go back to for reference were take by Fred, and I was just a couple of days ago poring through Santa Fe in the Lone Star State by Steve Allen Goen, wherein a trip on Orient doodlebug M184 in 1959 by Fred and J.B. Price is described, with three color photos.

From the cowboy hat with Santa Fe brakeman badge, to the infectious laugh, to the tall and usually true tales, and the encouraging and kind words for all, he will be missed.

High greens, My Friend.
Brian

Never knew Fred personally, but he was an Affiliate Members of the Illinois Live Steamers for years. As Recording Secretary, he would send the club a UP calendar each year that was posted in the club house. That was an appreciated gesture. Sorry to hear about his passing. Happy Rails and High Greens Fred! Carl B.

_________________
Sooner or later, you have to take the bull by the tail...and face the situation!
Life is like a sewer...what you get out of it depends on what you put into it!
I don't walk on water...I just know where some of the stepping stones are!
When it's all said and done...there's nothing left to say or do!

Fred was an incredible member of this hobby and great friend. I always looked forward to hearing what ends of the earth his railroad related travels took him.

Carl, just a week ago, Fred sent me a few photos of him and his 1" 0-4-0 at the Illinios Live Steamers. They are dated 1980. He also sent photos from NJLS in 1974 and, of course, his home track in Salado, TX, from 1990.

Marty, he also sent me a 1986 Southwestern Live Steamers boiler inspection card for the 0-4-0 signed by you.

Rest In Peace, Fred.

Stephen Balkum
(John Enders' grandson)
Austin & Texas Central RR
1 1/2" 2-8-0 #591
1" 0-4-0 #71