Harvey’s Home Heating has unveiled a new fuel truck with a special design to pay tribute to a family that have been distributors with the company for generations, all the while they mourn the loss of a beloved family member.
Members of the Penney family have been working for Harvey’s for six decades, but it was the sudden passing of Ben Penney, who was just 23-years-old, that was the impetus for the special gesture.
The truck, painted bright yellow and blue to replicate the company’s earliest fleet, was unveiled on Carter’s Hill Place in downtown St. John’s, a special location for the family as it contains a spray-painted mural in memory of Ben.
Towards the back of the truck, the names of four men from the family are written, including Ben.
The names of four Penney men with the backdrop of a mural painted in honour of Ben Penney.
Three Penney’s work for the company today, those being Gerry Penney – who will drive the new truck, Zack Penney, and Jamie Penney.
Harvey’s has also made a $10,000 donation to the Ruah Counselling Centre, in Ben’s memory, to support local mental health services.
Ben’s mom, Deanne Penney, choked back tears as she described what that donation means to her.
“If one person gets saved from this donation, it will put a little piece of my heart back together.”
Harvey’s presents the cheque for $10,000 to the Ruah Counselling Centre.
Deanne Penney shares a hug with Amelia O’Dea, the Executive Director of Ruah Counselling Centre.
