Chrysler technician in disbelief over automaker's fall

A Chrysler bankruptcy means worry in my house.

My father, Kevin Loveday, a faithful Chrysler employee for more than 15 years, made those feelings clear to me the moment he walked in the door from work on Thursday.

He was talking about Chrysler boss Bob Nardelli, distrust in President Barack Obama and disgust in bondholders who forced Chrysler into bankruptcy.

Auto workers met their contract agreements, signed their name on the ballot, voted in approval and believed the problem solved. But bankruptcy could not be avoided.

My father's office, where he is a product-development technician, is filled with rumor. Nobody knows what will happen. Many fear they will lose their jobs, while others believe Chrysler products will sit unsold on lots.

Most, he said, are in disbelief. They can't believe they voted on Wednesday to approve numerous concessions in hopes of saving the company, only to learn their efforts may one day have no impact.

At 28, I have an understanding of the situation. But my father, 56, who was a GM mechanic for more than 20 years, sees this situation in a different light.

We talked about this back in late March, too, after the ultimatums were given to GM and Chrysler.

"Chrysler might not be number one, but we try hard with the products that we have to work with," Dad said. "There is a market for our trucks and Jeeps, but we have a way to go with our cars.

"The Fiat alliance could help us out. The Obama administration and the media certainly don't support us. The real blame lies in the economy. This is not our fault. If we don't get people to spend money, we will never make it. If these two automotive giants fall, a lot of people will go down with them."

There may be a recovery for Chrysler, but we don't see it here.