Revell Ford celebrates 80th anniversary

Jun 22, 2016

Friends, community members, and three generations of Revells gathered on June 17 at Revell Ford in Verona to celebrate the business’ 80 year anniversary.

Like a miniature festival, the event featured food, live music, face-painting, and displays. Lineups for burgers, provided by the Verona Lions Club, twisted around a group of classic Fords that were parked out front. After everyone had eaten their fill, the music ended, and the microphone was handed off for speeches.

Mayor Vandewal was up first to congratulate the business on 80 years of success, and to thank them for their contribution to the community, pointing out Revell Ford is “the largest private employer in South Frontenac.”

Former Ottawa Senator Rick Smith was on hand signing autographs as part of the festivities. He and Councillor McDougall then presented a plaque to owner Larry Revell, the third generation from his family to work at Revell's. Larry sold cars in his younger years at the business, and now works as a general manager. Over the course of the festivities he was on the move, making sure everyone was where they needed to be, and shaking hands on the way. Perhaps it’s due to years of practice hosting anniversaries, but Larry’s speech was refreshingly brief.

“I have enjoyed working alongside my father and brother, and am proud to have anoher generation of our family working here. Thanks Nate, Josh, and Brad. I thank God for my grandfather’s vision, my father’s integrity, and for his blessing upon this dealership. Special thanks to all employees. We have a great team here.”

After a few more speeches, and the gift of a lovely Ford-themed quilt to Larry’s father, Harry, things settled down a bit and the crowd slowly dispersed.

In this quieter setting, Larry gave some insight into how he’d like the business to continue, as his sons and nephew become part the family business, “My father’s been a man of integrity, honest with people, so we want to follow in his footsteps: carry on the tradition; treat people fair. We want to be fair with our employees too; without them we wouldn’t be here.”