Rich Tornetta, a Norristown native, plans to add a final tribute to Minerva, the iconic Volkswagen RV cherished by the late WMMR-FM host Pierre Robert, writes Alex Coffey for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Tornetta, who helped restore the van twelve years ago, is now intending to add a portrait of Robert to the custom-painted vehicle, honoring the DJ’s lasting impact on Philadelphia.
Robert, who died on October 29 at 70, was known for his free-spirited personality, tie-dyed shirts, and deep love for music and the city. He considered his van a companion, alongside his golden retriever, Lucy. When Minerva fell into disrepair over the years, Tornetta and the family-owned CollisionMax auto-body shop stepped in to restore it for free. Local artist Franny Drummond airbrushed the van with ghostly renderings of Robert’s favorite musicians, the Philadelphia skyline, and colorful motifs.
Now, Tornetta and Drummond are planning to add Robert’s likeness to the van, ensuring his spirit remains part of the city he cherished.
“I think with people loving him and people loving that bus – he is the city,” said Drummond. “It would be really special if we did that.”
Read more about Pierre Robert in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
