Published: March 01, 2008 01:22 am      

EXTRA MILER: Herb Fenwick is one of a kind

By Carol A. Dawson

Extra.Milers@newsandtribune.com

“The little unremembered acts of kindness and love are the best parts of a person’s life.”

— William Wadsworth

•••

Come along with me. I would like to introduce you to the proverbial man who gives the shirt off his back. His name is Herb Fenwick and he resides in New Albany.

George Mouser, Herb’s friend, initially contacted me about a previous Extra Miler column. I had suggested cutting out the column and presenting it personally to an Extra Miler. George sent an e-mail to say that he would have presented the column to Herb Fenwick, except Herb probably wouldn’t accept it.

George went on to explain, “Herb wouldn’t think he deserves the recognition as a person who goes the extra mile. He is the kind of man who doesn’t want or expect publicity or even a thank you for all he does for the people in this community.”

Herb doesn’t wait to be asked for assistance; he simply jumps into action when he observes a need. When he has completed his task, Herb doesn’t wait around for recognition or words of appreciation either.

Accolades are simply not part of the equation. This was so much the truth that we kept this column a surprise until Herb received his Extra Miler pin.

Herb raised four children on his farm and has always had time to help neighbors and his community. He works diligently with his neighbors to protect the beauty of rural Floyd County.

Herb’s daughter, Cindy Hundley, was thrilled about her father being recognized for his good deeds.

“My father is the kind of guy that gets up in the early morning hours after a snowfall to shovel and clean his neighbor’s driveways before they get up.”

His only calling card is his reputation for doing such things in the neighborhood. Cindy recalls how a friend once described her father.

“Lisa described my dad as being like Jesus with skin ... always looking to care for others.”

At 72, Herb keeps a schedule that would put much younger men and women to shame. He does odd jobs around homes in his neighborhood to help those who cannot do the work themselves or who do not have the expertise.

“My Dad has a servant’s heart; he probably volunteers to help six or seven different families regularly each week with a variety of jobs,” Cindy said.

Herb’s long time friend, Norb Kruer, told how Herb was truly an Extra Miler. “He doesn’t accept status. He is only interested in doing the right thing for our families and our community. When Herb views a problem, he deals with it in a nonconfrontational manner.”

Another friend, Joanna Danzl, describes Herb as someone who is always willing to help out a neighbor. Joanna said: “Herb isn’t a young man by age; however, he definitely works like one ... he will help a neighbor roof a barn, cut firewood or fix their broken appliances.”

There doesn’t seem to be anything Herb will not do to help his neighbors and family members. Joanna sums up our interview: “Herb Fenwick is a kind-hearted, gentle and unselfish person who just amazes me.”

Herb lives his life with respect — respect for the people in our community and respect for the land that he loves. His friends describe him as a motivated individual who goes into each day with an optimistic attitude, a good sense of humor and a desire to help those in need.

George Mouser concluded our interview.

“Herb is a strong but quiet man who is neither flamboyant nor egotistical. Simply put, Herb Fenwick is a good neighbor and friend to all who know him and I’m happy to let him know this is how we feel.”

Herb, your neighbors, your family, and our community sincerely thank you for being a Southern Indiana Extra Miler.

• Kindness Tip of the Month: Businesses can go the extra mile: I have a 1947 photo of my father when he was just 17 years old, standing in an official group photo with his Navy unit in San Diego. It has been hanging in my home for many years. The photo fell from the wall recently and the glass broke to pieces. Gently picking it up, glass and all, I took it to “Frame It Fast,” where a young man named Chris Nicheols took one look at it and said he could have it repaired by the next day.

Without being asked, he quickly added, “No charge.” My genius response was, “Are you sure?” He nodded his head and said, “We are happy to do this for you.” This gesture perked up a soggy cold winter day for this columnist. If you have a business in Southern Indiana, consider offering acts of kindness whenever you can. The goodwill will far exceed the benefit of keeping a client or customer content.

Carol A. Dawson is a resident of Jeffersonville and owner of EEO Guidance, Inc. If you have seen or been a part of an act of kindness or know an Extra Miler, let her know about it. To submit a story or act of kindness, contact Carol via e-mail: Extra.Milers@newsandtribune.com or mail: THE EXTRA MILERS, The Evening News, 221 Spring Street Jeffersonville, IN 47130-3340.