Trucks, Cars, Semis and more for John Dolliver Memorial Event

A local family has found inspiration for a scholarship fund through the tragic loss of their son and brother after a Canada Day 2016 car crash.

John Dolliver was passionate about his truck and in the year since his passing, his family has restored his project truck to keep his memory alive.

“John was so passionate when it came to mechanics and it’s what he wanted to do. He thought the world of Mr. Wade his mechanics teacher and Mr. Wade told us how talented John was,” said Tammy, John’s mom.

They can now add to their list of family endeavours the task of coordinating a fundraising truck and car show. The money raised will be used for a scholarship fund which will be awarded to a Lindsay Thurber student working towards an apprenticeship in heavy or light duty mechanics or autobody.

“We talked at first about a meet and greet or maybe a show and shine and we thought maybe we’d get fifty or seventy-five people,” said Tammy.

10 to 15 metres

Red Deer residents concerned with increased building heights in new Zoning Bylaw

51m ago

Byelection April 22, 2024

Advance voting for Red Deer's byelection runs April 18-20

15h ago

family physician

New doctor working at Easthill clinic in Red Deer

15h ago

Since the inception of the plans for the car show Tammy said it has somewhat exploded with bigger groups and organizations asking if they can add the event to their calendars. Some of these groups wanting to share and help with the event include the Alberta Large Cars, a motorcycle group, antique groups, and even the local Cruise Nights group.  

John’s parents, Scott and Tammy, and his sister, Brianna have arranged the event. Participants wanting to show off their vehicle can enter for just $10 and attendees have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets and 50/50 tickets as well as a BBQ.

“We are unsure of numbers, but we have people coming from all over,” said Tammy.

Some vehicles that stand out to Tammy as attending include a family from Cold Lake who lost their daughter in a motorcycle accident who are bringing her memorial truck, as well as the family of another gentleman who host their own car and truck show in Calgary each year bringing his memorial truck up.

Tammy said the community support for hosting this event has been amazing including donations of a BBQ meal for attendees. She said even after John’s passing it was incredible to receive donations from local businesses to assist in the rebuilding of his project truck.

“It’s been overwhelming because we aren’t from here and don’t know a whole lot of people. Our son was so kind, he would buy peoples’ groceries and do random acts of kindness but we didn’t hear this until after he passed away,” said Tammy.

Tammy recalls John’s celebration of life at their home and said she figures over 200 people passed through the doors to honor and remember John.

The memorial truck and car show will also feature some vendors who Tammy said were crucial to the rebuild of John’s truck and she hopes people come out and stop by at those booths.

“Some of the items are from local businesses like the ones who helped us include car alarms, wheels and tires vendors, and truck accessories,” said Tammy.

Anyone looking to attend is also asked to consider donating a new teddy bear for the Alberta Children’s Hospital which will be picked up after the event and delivered.

The event is being held at the Crossroads Church located just west of Highway 2 on 32nd street on June 24th with registration for vehicles at 9 a.m. and the show running from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.