Neal William Powell: A Life of Service and Commitment
Born on February 1, 1921, in Topeka, Kansas, Neal Powell's journey led him from the heartland to Maryland during World War II. Trained as an aerial photography interpreter at Fort Ritchie, Powell's connection with Taneytown deepened when he met M. Janet Burke. Their marriage in 1943 marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
After the war, Powell settled in Maryland, joining the Cambridge Rubber Co. His ascent in local politics mirrored his rise in the corporate world, serving on the City Council for nine years before becoming mayor in 1966.
Powell's commitment to Taneytown extended beyond politics. In 1978, facing a managerial vacancy, he assumed the role of city manager, retiring from his private-sector position to fully dedicate himself to the town's administration. Major projects such as water supply development, park expansion, and sewer system upgrades testify to Powell's collaborative leadership.
Active in various civic organizations, Powell's influence reached beyond Taneytown, demonstrating his devotion to town and country through participation in the Maryland Municipal League, Carroll Chamber of Commerce, Carroll Board of Education, and the American Legion Post 120.
Upon Powell's retirement, Taneytown honored him with a dinner attended by dignitaries, emphasizing his impact on the community. President George Bush acknowledged his service, and Powell's induction into the Maryland Municipal League Hall of Fame in 2000 solidified his legacy.
Even after passing in 2002, Neal William Powell's legacy lives on through Taneytown's developments, parks, and infrastructure improvements, a testament to his vision and unwavering dedication.
Henry Reindollar: A Lifelong Commitment to Taneytown
Henry Reindollar, a familiar face in Taneytown, passed away at 79, leaving a legacy intertwined with the town's history. A third-generation owner of Reindollar Hardware Store, he retired from both the store and his 16-year tenure as mayor in 1995.
His public service began in 1948 when he became the city's clerk-treasurer, a role he held for an impressive 28 years. Elected as mayor in 1979, Reindollar served four four-year terms, leaving an indelible mark on Taneytown's civic life.
Retiring as mayor in 1995, Reindollar contributed by also serving as acting city manager. Colleagues remember him as a wealth of knowledge, a fantastic person, and a great community worker. His dedication to Taneytown went beyond politics, with involvement in civic organizations and active participation in the town's Economic Development Commission.
A man of diverse talents, Reindollar, a 1938 graduate of Western Maryland College, served in the Army during World War II as a transportation officer. He was a successful businessman, skilled violinist, and singer with a beautiful baritone voice that graced Trinity Lutheran Church's choir since he was 16.
Henry Reindollar's impact extended beyond his business and political roles. He was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, served on the church council, and contributed to various civic organizations, showcasing a commitment to his town and community.
William Robert "Bob" Flickinger: A Heritage of Commitment and Devotion
William Robert "Bob" Flickinger, aged 88, served three terms as Taneytown's mayor and passed away in January 2021. Flickinger's dedicated history of public service left an indelible mark on his family and the Taneytown community.
Born on December 3, 1932, in Tyrone, Maryland, Flickinger married his wife, Fairy, on June 30, 1957, while serving in the U.S. Army from 1955-58. Their 63-year marriage was a testament to his commitment to family and community. Flickinger worked at Random House, Inc. in Westminster for 26 years before retiring in 1993.
Active in Grace United Church of Christ in Taneytown, Flickinger contributed to the Grace United Learning Center, a nonprofit childcare facility serving children aged 2-8. His public service included three terms as mayor (1978-79, 1995-99, and 2003-07) and over 16 years as a Taneytown city councilman, earning induction into the Municipal League Hall of Fame in 1997 after more than two decades in public office.
Flickinger's service extended beyond City Hall, as he served twice as club president of the Taneytown Lions Club and was recognized with the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award and the District 22-W Honor Roll Award for 46 years of perfect attendance. Additionally, he contributed to various civic organizations, including the Taneytown Jaycees, Carroll County Commission on Aging, Carroll County Parks and Recreation Council, and Carroll County Historical Society.
Contemplating the lasting influence of Neal Powell, Henry Reindollar, and Bob Flickinger, one can discern their impact resonating across Taneytown's streets, parks, and institutions. The community profoundly appreciates their unwavering dedication and service, recognizing their enduring impression on the cherished town. As Mayor Christopher Miller addresses the council in the times ahead, he can find inspiration in the legacy of these individuals and their predecessors, cultivating a sense of commitment and respect that the council members rightfully merit.
David Buie is a Taneytown Resident who has a passion for
Carroll County and its place in history.
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