Genung's Model A pickup a familiar Christmas sight

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On Dec. 8, a 1930 Ford Model A half-ton truck was parked on Central Avenue for Superior's Once Upon a Christmas event. A sled, some decorative pillows and a red blanket were placed in the back for photo opportunities. 

Years ago, Gene Genung had a 1924 Model T Coupe but at that time, he needed a pickup. A fellow in town named Roy Drapal had a 1930 Ford Model A and they were able to work out a trade.  Genung regularly drove the truck to work in the late 1970s. At the corner of 7th and Louden, Gene and his pickup were hit by a vehicle going about 40 miles per hour, caving in the entire right side of the pickup. Luckily, Gene was an experienced body repairman having worked 18 years in Bill Morris's Ford dealership's body shop.  He rebuilt the vehicle, replacing the cab and box.   

Gene has two sons, Troy and Darren, who gladly "keep an eye on him." Troy drives the Model A these days as Gene has given it to him. Gene said Darren will get his 1929 "Vanilla Cool" colored Ford Tudor Sedan. Gene celebrated his 90th birthday on Tuesday (Dec. 26) and he plans on going to see his twin sister in Davenport as soon as this snow clears up a bit, but he doesn't plan to drive the Model A pickup.