David Anderson

David Anderson’s two-year project of rebuilding a 1967 Chevy Nova was more than just a mechanical endeavor—it was a deeply personal journey filled with humorous mishaps and touching memories of his late father, Jack.

New to Roland, Anderson was looking for a meaningful way to connect with his father’s legacy when he stumbled upon the rusty outline of a forgotten 1967 Chevy Nova in a neighbor’s garage.

Anderson had always admired his father’s passion for cars, and restoring this Nova seemed like the perfect way to honor that legacy.

“I found the Nova in 2022. It was a wreck, but I saw what it could become,’ Anderson recalls with a chuckle. ‘I was excited to bring it back to life. Plus, it was cheaper than a therapist.’

With limited experience but a heart full of determination, he spent countless weekends in the garage, dismantling the car down to its frame. He relied on memories of his father’s teachings and countless YouTube tutorials to guide him.

“It was a great learning experience,’ he said. ‘Dad had taught me the basics, but this project forced me to dive deeper into welding, bodywork, rebuilding the engine, and installing new upholstery.’

As he worked on the Nova, Anderson often found himself reflecting on his father’s wisdom and stories.

“This project wasn’t just about the car; it was about connecting with my dad’s memory,’ he explains. ‘I would talk to him in my mind about everything—family, life, and my dreams for the future. And, of course, why the manual always goes missing at the worst times.’

The garage echoed with laughter, grumbles, and the clinking of tools. One memorable day, Anderson misplaced a critical bolt, sparking a frantic, comedic search that ended with him finding it in the most obvious place—right under his foot.

“I should have recorded my antics; it would make a great comedy series,’ he jokes.

The restoration process was challenging and time-consuming. Anderson faced numerous setbacks, from sourcing rare parts to overcoming technical difficulties. Yet, each obstacle only reinforced his determination.

TThere were times when I felt frustrated, but I never gave up,’ he said. ‘I knew I was building something special. Plus, I had already invested too much in coffee and energy drinks to quit.’

After two years of hard work, the Nova is now finally complete. Anderson’s pride in his accomplishment is evident.

“Seeing the finished car was incredible,’ he said. ‘It was a testament to my hard work and dedication. And to the sheer number of curse words I invented along the way.’

Anderson plans on entering the Nova in the 2024 Muldrow Cruise Night and is hopeful that the organizers will allow burnouts this year.

“It would be the crowning achievement to do some burnouts in the car,” he said, “as long as it holds itself together, of course.”

Just Folks is Your TIMES way of honoring the regular people of Sequoyah County, recognizing their unique talents, personalities, jobs, abilities, etc. Your TIMES appreciates the cooperation of each Just Folks and the public’s nominations for this feature. If you know of someone you think might be a good story, contact Amie at 918-775-4433.