Owned by Wayne Dietrich – ON
For Wayne Dietrich, Fords have always been a way of life. His love for the brand started in his teenage years when he drove a 1956 Ford until it gave out. The styling, reliability, and connection to fond memories made Ford his brand of choice. So, when he set out to find a vintage car, there was no question—it had to be a 1956 model.
Today, Wayne proudly owns two stunning examples: a Ford Crown Victoria and a 1956 Ford Sunliner. The hardtop was purchased in Arizona, while the convertible came from California, both imported by his friend John Riordon. While he loves both cars, the ’56 Fairlane Sunliner holds a special place in his heart, standing as his true pride and joy. These cars have played a key role in family events, including weddings, making them more than just collector’s items—they’re part of cherished memories. At one wedding, his Sunliner served as the getaway car, with streamers trailing behind and cans clanking on the pavement, making for a picture-perfect moment.
One of Wayne’s most unique experiences with his Fords came in 2000 when he participated in the filming of The Fifth Estate episode “Steven Truscott – His Word Against History.” His friend John Brown had been contacted by the production crew, who needed period-correct vehicles to recreate scenes from the late 1950s. Wayne’s cars fit the bill perfectly, making their way into Canadian television history. Seeing his cars on set was a surreal experience, and he still remembers the excitement of watching them roll onto the screen.
The Crown Victoria stands out with its classic spotlights and distinctive cow catchers, embodying the bold styling of its era. But for Wayne, these cars aren’t just about looks—they represent friendships, memories, and a lifelong passion. Through car shows and meet-ups, he’s met lifelong friends, all connected by a shared love of vintage automobiles.
“It sounds cliché, but they really don’t make cars like this anymore,” Wayne says with a smile.
And to bring things full circle, there’s another personal connection to the automotive world—his granddaughter, Makinna McCormick, is a broker at Zehr Insurance in our Milverton office. With a strong appreciation for classic cars running in the family, Wayne finds comfort in knowing that the next generation is just as passionate about preserving and protecting automotive history.
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