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#846608
Wed Apr 25 2012 11:57 PM
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Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 23
OP
New Guy
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It's a tough thing for me to do this introduction. My Dad passed away from cancer and left me his 1/2 ton 1946 Chevy truck. The truck was restored by the both of us as a father and son project 28 years ago. I was 12 then.
Even as I write this it's tough for me. Never in a million years did I think I would be writing about my father. Some lessons come hard.
Back in the early 80's he bought the truck for $600 from a local service station. It was a service station that was the last of it's type. I can still remember the temperature, the time of day, and the excitement in my Dads face as we drove it home. My parents were flat broke but my Dad wanted this as a reason to do something special with his son. I didn't realize that then but I do now.
We worked hard and took every last piece apart. Back then the internet wasn't invented and companies that made replacement parts were non existent. Our only option was to comb every single salvage yard in Wisconsin and attend every swap meet we could find. Boy do I miss those days.
But we accomplished it inside of just 3 years. I would come home and do homework then I would wait for him to get home so we could head out to the garage.
I had such a perfect childhood, I wouldn't change a thing. During the rest of the 80's and 90's my Dad and I attended hundreds of shows and spent a lot of time in that old girl driving around and just talking about stuff. We would visit other truck people and help them with motivation and spare parts. It was fun.
I'm 40 now and have 2 sons and a daughter. Henry is 7 and is just excited as all get-out. Oliver is 2 and Emily is 10.
My Mom handed me the keys the other day and said "When you and Dad restored this he knew one day this would be yours". "Take good care of it and have fun with your kids."
The truck has sat for 5 years. Cancer didn't allow him the time and energy to deal with it towards the end. The next thing for me is to try and get it started. Then make some new memories.
Mike
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Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 3,100
Socket Breaker
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Howdy...
welcome to the 'Bolt.
You already share the sickness and you are among fellow truck addicts.
*smile*
-W
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Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 23
OP
New Guy
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Thanks -W- I started a blog so I can post photos and progress. I still have to proof read it but this will show some photos. http://kens46truck.wordpress.com/Mike
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 1,418
Camp Commandant
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Mike, Welcome to the Bolt.
Great story but I can relate to how tough it is too. Mom passed from cancer and my sister has been battling it for several years.
Enjoy the truck and the time you and your kids spend fixing her up again. I'm sure this is what your Dad would want.
Keep us posted on your progress and all the fun you have with it.
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Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 23
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New Guy
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Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 415
Shop Shark
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Mike,
You tell a very caring story. Your memories of your father and his love for you and his old truck are priceless.
Welcome to the "Stovebolt" and just feel free to ask away about any concern you might have about your dad's truck which now you are the the proud owner of. By the looks of the pictures you posted, your truck has been well taken care of. Continue the story.....
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Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 23
OP
New Guy
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Hi David
Boy, that sure is a nice truck you have. That red is quite the color!
After I posted my introduction Henry busted through the front door and pounded out his homework so I could take him out to the barn to see the truck. Man, it's like my childhood all over again. lol
Anyhow, thanks for the kind words.
Mike
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Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 105
Shop Shark
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Hey Mike, Sorry for your loss. I'm sure your Dad will be watching & smiling as you & your son enjoy that old truck. You're lucky to have such great memories. Welcome to Stovebolt! See ya! Mark
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Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 159
Wrench Fetcher
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Mike, welcome to the site. What a heartwarming story about the time you and your Dad spent with your truck. Good luck as you and your children work to get her back on the road again
Kenny Martin Talladega, Ala Second place is the first loser - Ricky Bobby 1956 Chevy 1/2 Ton
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 15,990
'Bolter
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This is a great story and the way your dad probably meant for it to be. Enjoy the past memories and make some for the future. Along this same line my daughter was 12 when I started my 37 she is now 30 and still talks about helping me. She gets the truck when I'm gone.
Welcome to the Stovebolt. Let us know how we can help..
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