Williams pioneers Max and Thelma Biegert have passed away in Southern Arizona within days of each other.
Max and Thelma Biegert bought and restored the Grand Canyon Railway in the late 1980s and made a significant investment to get it back in shape to carry passengers. The newly renovated railroad restored passenger service to the Grand Canyon on September 17th, 1989, a decision that reinvigorated the local economy and brought many new jobs.
The Biegerts owned a significant amount of land in the area in addition to the railroad. Their last holding, 500 acres around Gonzales Lake, was just sold to developers, and was one of the largest pieces of land in the area left in private hands.
The pair were active philanthropists with a long history of service to the community. The legacy of their generosity will be felt for generations.
A private memorial service was held in Southern Arizona last week. Both of their deaths were from natural causes. They were both 94.
