ST. PAUL, Minn. — A warm place to live may be taken for granted, but for a veteran taking over the family home, it is a gift.
Bob Rymerson closed his St. Paul home this summer. It had been in his family since 1918 and was Rymerson’s childhood home.
“My wife and I just got married earlier this year and now we have to build a whole new chapter with her children and her side of the family, trying to keep that tradition going,” he said.
Rymerson has fond memories of Christmas gatherings full of music.
“All those memories are just warm memories in my heart,” he said.
But in recent years the winters have been cold. Rymerson’s 24-year-old furnace broke down and the air conditioner also failed.
“I had some issues transitioning back into the workforce and civilian environment after being in the Marine Corps,” he said.
He served in the Marines for four years before suffering an injury. He continued to struggle with legal problems and addiction.
“When it comes down to when you really need help, you don’t really know how to ask,” Rymerson said.
Now, almost nine years sober, Rymerson is rebuilding his life and home. Thanks to Snelling Company and Lennox’s “Feel The Love” program, he received a free furnace and air conditioning.
“They provide the equipment, we provide the help to install it, and then we get someone to stay warm this winter,” said Snelling Company Ower Phil Krinkie.
Krinkie said it’s personal. He comes from a family of veterans and has longtime associates who also served in the military. While the “Feel The Program” is open to anyone who needs a furnace or air conditioner, his company has chosen to focus on veterans.
“We like to help our veterans stay warm,” Krinkie said.
Rymerson and his furry pet family will stay warm this winter, both inside and out.
“It’s not like a big weight is lifted off your shoulders, but it’s lifted off your heart. It’s like there’s a little glimmer of hope or something,” Rymerson said.
