Issues and stories about adapting motor vehicles for persons with disabilities.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Bill Overlock

When Bill Overlock retired and sold his Braun dealership in Winter Haven Florida in February 2008, he bought himself a retirement gift, a new 2007 Buick Terraza Entervan.

The 2007 Buick Terraza is the last of the Buick minivans. Several years ago General Motors announced it was discontinuing its entire line of minivans as a cost-cutting measure to help the company return to profitability. It's a shame because the Buicks were luxuriously equipped and worked well as a lowered-floor Entervan with a wheelchair ramp and kneeling system.

“It’s a nice van.” said Overlock “I’m still learning all of the features.”

The 73-year-young Overlock also loves to travel, so the OnStar system and the navigation system will be put to good use. He might even get to use the heated seats and mirrors when he visits his former home state of New Hampshire. Overlock tows the Terraza behind his motor home when he travels long distances. It's a good thing, because this summer he needed it for transportation while the radiator was being replaced in New York state.

When he’s not traveling Overlock takes care of his home and large yard and attempts to cross off items on wife Judy’s “To Do” list.

Overlock, a paraplegic since 1959, moved to Florida in 1974 to run a camp for disabled children. For the last 22 years he has put his talents as an electrician and jeweler to use in his business, Wheelman Enterprises. He sold and repaired wheelchairs, lifts, vans and other mobility equipment. He also did most of the installation work.

When it comes to his personal vehicles, “I guess I have always been a GM man” said Overlock. “I love the way it rides.”

May you have many more years of smooth rides my friend, and we'll look forwad to seeing you down the road.