“I handed my dad the 1967 Marina Blue Camaro that he had given up for me after 41 years. I was reminded of the depth of his affection and the memories we had made together by witnessing his happiness and tears. The highlight of my life. 💙

Dad would recall the very specific details of this car so much that I had them burned into my brain. 1967. 350 V8. Marina Blue. White Stripes. Automatic. Cragar aftermarket wheels. White letter tires. Dual exhaust. I could close my eyes and see it.

The moment I heard about this car I dreamed of one day finding a way to give it back to him. Last Sunday I finally did it. I gave dad back his car. He had no idea. Mom had no idea. Nobody had an idea.

I’ve owned the car for years and been working on it secretly this entire time for this moment. Somehow I was able to really keep a true secret. The reveal was absolutely perfect.

We some searching and pure luck I located a Marina Blue 67 in 2022 nearly in Oklahoma. The car was mechanically rough, full of wiring problems, had engine issue and had questionable wheels. But it was intact.

The past couple of years I have slowly worked to correct ever issue, test every function, and even found a brand new set of period correct 15” cragar wheels, identical to the set dad had on the car in the early 80’s. Sunday on his 65th birthday, I handed him the keys.

I’ve only seen my dad cry two times in my entire life. Dad only smiles, laughs and selflessly gives his best effort in the service of others. Tonight I saw him cry a third time, as he realized the car in parking lot that looks just like his old one, was actually his after all. He was shocked. He threw his arms around me.

And it was one of the best moments of my entire life.

40 Years Old, Size 11 Shoe, 5’11” 230lbs.