In Memory of Joe

Some families have priceless antiques that are prized and passed on from generation to generation. The Kelley family's pride and joy is a 1948 one-of-a-kind Ford cabover tow truck created by the late Joe Kelley Sr.

Originally purchased in 1948 as a red tractor, it was converted into a tow truck to be used commercially. Joe Kelley Sr., who had opened Joe Kelley Auto Body in Center Square, Pa., bought the tow truck in 1957 for $250 and changed the color from red to white and green. He put the truck to use towing for Whitpain Township, the state police, bus garages and even used it at Wings Field to tow airplanes. The truck was most recognized at Hatfield Speedway where it towed broken down race cars.

Several years later, Joe decided it was time to add a little touch of class to his unique tow truck. He constructed a custom rear body using nothing more than an idea and scrap metal. Finished in 1962, it fully enclosed the rear tires and comfortably held a set of dolly wheels along with all the tools you would expect to find in a tow truck. Unfortunately, however, that same year, the tow truck was damaged in an accident, putting it out of commission for quite a while. Body restoration followed and a 265 Chevy engine was installed.

As business slowed down, the tow truck became obsolete and ended up sitting out for 25 years, slowly beginning to rot. Joe's passion for the truck continued until his death in 2000. When new owner John Kelley took over the business, he decided to restore his father's truck. In Joe's memory John and his sons Justin and Zak rebuilt the tow truck and brought it to show standards.

The Ford C-5 truck has been in many shows and has received many awards. However, no trophies could ever surpass the feeling of a job well done, especially when there is so much meaning to the task.