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Family of veteran who died before getting to ride in 1953 Chevy Bel Air takes his place

Posted at 1:07 PM, Aug 18, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-18 13:07:40-04

MUNROE FALLS, Ohio — The family of a veteran who died before getting to ride in a 1953 Chevy Bel Air before his passing took his place.

Charles "Chick" Williams, 74, had cancer and a vascular circulatory diseases. His wife, Gale, posted a touching message on Facebook hoping someone in the classic car community can help fulfill a last wish.

"My husband is a veteran of the U.S Army. In the last six months, he has had seven surgeries. He is now home with hospice care and given a short time to live," she wrote. "I'm possibly looking to rent a 1953 Chevy Bel Air for the day or a few hours to take him for a ride. This is his dream car and the first car he ever owned."

His left leg was amputated earlier this year.

When he was a teenager, Chick was given a two-tone green '53 Chevy Bel Air by his father. He fell in love with it and cherishes the memories.

He was supposed to get his dying wish granted on Sunday.

A car cruise was held with four '53 Chevy Bel Air's for Williams to ride in, as well as the Cuyahoga Falls mayor honored the family of the veteran.

RELATED: Veteran looking to get one final ride in a 1953 Chevy Bel Air dies before getting the chance