More than a dozen vintage heavy-duty trucks from the Timber Crest Farms Collection are set to cross the auction block at Mecum Glendale 2025, offering bidders a chance to own a rare piece of American trucking history. The collection, carefully curated by Ronald Waltenspiel, reflects a lifelong passion for historic haulers and will be a marquee attraction at the event, scheduled for March 18-22 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
A Legacy Built on the Road
Waltenspiel’s fascination with large trucks began in his youth when he assisted his father in delivering oil and propane. That early exposure to the power and presence of these machines led to a lifetime of collecting and restoring rare and historic models, including several Sterling trucks—one of the most revered names in vintage trucking.
His collection features an impressive range of vehicles, from the 1917 Sterling 2.5 Ton, a relic from the early days of industrial transportation, to the post-war 1947 Sterling RWS160H, an iconic workhorse from an era of American expansion.
Other Notable Trucks from the Collection
Among the standout trucks is the 1939 Sterling JC137, a rare model that ignited Waltenspiel’s serious commitment to restoration. Another highlight is the 1927 Sterling EC23, finished in a striking orange paint and retaining its original inline four-cylinder engine and chain drive system.
A 1928 Sterling DB 8 63, equipped with a wooden bed and used by Waltenspiel himself to transport grapes for winemaking, is a testament to his philosophy that restored classics should still be functional. Completing the collection is a 1956 Peterbilt 351, representing a transition into the modern era of American trucking.
A Final Chapter for a Lifetime Collection
At 92 years old, Waltenspiel has made the bittersweet decision to part with his collection. Rather than leaving the task to his wife in the future, he has chosen Mecum Auctions as the ideal platform to find new homes for his beloved trucks.
“I wanted to take care of some business so that my wife doesn’t have to,” Waltenspiel said, acknowledging that the decision was not made lightly. Additionally, proceeds from the auction will be donated to charitable causes, continuing his legacy of giving back to the community.
For vintage truck enthusiasts, Mecum Glendale 2025 presents a rare opportunity to bid on a collection of meticulously restored haulers. With a mix of historical significance, expert craftsmanship, and emotional investment, the Timber Crest Farms Collection stands as a tribute to America’s trucking heritage and one man’s dedication to preserving it.
Shawn Henry