The National Packard Museum’s Board of Directors honored Theodore “Ted” Bunnell for distinguished service and philanthropy in support of the museum and its mission.

Bunnell was given a plaque recognizing his contributions, and an identical plaque will be on permanent display in the museum.

Bunnell who lives in Bethany, W.Va., is a life member of the Packard Museum Association and was elected as director emeritus of its board in 2020 after completing his term as president. He served on the museum’s advisory council from 2000-10 until being elected to the board in 2011.

He also is a contributor to the museum, donating to its original construction in 1999 as well as its expansion in 2010. Bunnell’s long-term financial support of museum’s operations enabled the museum to present the exhibits and programs that promote the museum’s mission to preserve the Packard Legacy and recognize Packard’s influence in transportation history.

According to Executive Director Mary Ann Porinchak, “This award is a small token of our overwhelming gratitude for his friendship, support and leadership over the years. Ted’s help enabled us to proceed with a major expansion during the 2008-2009 financial crisis and steadied the ship during the recent pandemic which forced the museum’s temporary closure … Ted is our rock. I don’t know what we would have done without his quiet leadership and generous financial support.”