KELOWNA, BC — “In addition to having the driver of the year here, I’m pretty sure we have the mother of the year, too.”

That’s the word from Volvo Canada District Sales Manager Terry Warkentin moments before presenting driver Robert Kelly with the 2013 BCTA/Volvo Driver of the Year Award.

Warkentin was referring to the fact that since Kelly married Karen in 1966, they have fostered more than 100 children, in addition to raising their own daughter, Tammy. And they were all joined on stage for the award presentation by the latest addition to the family, Stefani.

Kelly started driving with Berry & Smith in 1987. But before that, he spent most of his trucking life self-employed in the tow-truck business.

According to the BCTA, Kelly “has done some very complex and difficult work in towing and was known for inviting people to stay in his home while he fixed their vehicles.”

He also won towing awards from the RCMP, the British Columbia Automobile Association and the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia.

Later, at Berry & Smith, Kelly received several safe-driving awards, as recently as 2012.

Berry & Smith regards Kelly as the consummate professional for his strong work ethic, customer service, and commitment to safety and maintenance.

“Bob always has a smile on his face and is willing to go above and beyond to help others. If he doesn’t have an answer to a question, he’ll find it for you,” the winning statement said.

Kelly was presented with a plaque, a check and the hearty recognition of his peers at the British Columbia Trucking Association’s (BCTA) 100th Anniversary in Kelowna.