Memories of Long-Haul Trucking
HARRISONBURG, Va. – Matt Roan fondly remembers his father, Pete Roan, returning to their home in Dublin, Va. after days spent on the road as a long-haul truck driver. Exhausted from driving, Pete would be greeted by Matt, who was always eager to ask him about his travels.
Retirement and Reflections
Now 70 years old, Pete retired from trucking in March 2020 after suffering a massive stroke that left him paralyzed on one side. Despite this setback, his legacy remains in the lessons he imparted to Matt about hard work and sacrifice.
A Tribute Through Travel
Recently, Matt, the athletic director at James Madison University, took a nearly 300-mile trip in “Diesel Duke,” the JMU football equipment truck. The team was heading to a game against Marshall, and with family unable to attend, Matt saw this as a perfect opportunity to honor his father’s career.
Life Lessons Learned
“You sacrifice for your family. You work hard for anything in life,” stated Matt, reflecting his father’s blue-collar ethics. Pete worked over 35 years as a truck driver, starting locally before moving on to long-haul trucking, which included stints with Coca-Cola and Estes Express Lines.
Family’s Community Roots
The Roans emphasized community, staying in Dublin even after moving to a larger house in 1997. Despite Pete’s demanding job, he participated in Matt’s youth sports whenever possible, leaving a lasting impression on Matt regarding the value of family time.
Building His Own Path
After some thought about following in his father’s footsteps as a truck driver, Matt pursued education instead, obtaining a bachelor’s degree and attending law school before entering college athletics in 2011. His journey eventually led him to his current position at JMU.
Connecting the Past with the Present
During his recent trip in the equipment truck, Matt reflected on his father’s influence and sacrifices, feeling a nostalgic connection. “Even though he wasn’t in the truck with me, he was in the truck with me,” he expressed, capturing the essence of the journey and his father’s unwavering support.
