Chapter 4 (page 49)

The question has come up from time to time, what will happen to the car next? Sometimes a serious question, but typically in a chiding way? And yes, whoever’s asking, typically asks if I “get it.” Well that’s a fair question, at this point and the short answer is yes. In the Kreuz family, we have a tradition of keeping things in our family that have meaning and value to us as a family. This was brought front and center with the recent passing of my Dad’s brother and [my uncle] George Kreuz. Dad wants this car to stay in the Kreuz Family blood line and that is what we will do. This is not just a car, but it is literally my father. He put everything that he has, all of his emotion, his love, his excitement and his zest for life, not to mention, all of his passion into this car. And now he shares it with everyone.

So, yes this car will stay in the Kreuz Family and forever be a symbol of what he accomplished against all odds. Yes, I am the next in line to own the car and then someday it will pass to my son Nicholas. Sometimes people joke with me about getting the car someday and I realize and forgive the normalcy of these light hearted comments. But I don’t ever even think about that, because right now I simply love watching my Dad drive it. I love hearing his stories, about him taking it out and people giving him the thumbs up. Going up to Coffee & Cars and the organizers have him put the car center stage with he “super exotics.” Taking my kids for rides out on the country roads, or and probably the biggest of all, having my Uncle George attend my son's graduation party and be able to go out for a ride with Dad. In all my years, I don’t think I ever saw my Uncle George smile so big. Then when they returned and Dad asked, “do you want to go again?” and Uncle George responded, “Hell Yes!” and off they went! Yeah, right now, I just want to see and enjoy the memories that will be built with every ride. Memories that we can hold onto forever.

Sure, one day the car will pass to me, but that day, I hope & pray, is way out there on the distant calendar. I hope that Dad puts as many miles on the car that he possibly can before he hands me the keys. I hope & pray that it takes longer to own it, then it did to restore it. Simply put, I hope it takes a hell of a long time for me to own the car. If I get my wish, it’ll take some patience and persistence on my part.

But that’s OK, I can wait… I had a good teacher.