Cornwall Transit driver makes final stop on lengthy career
CORNWALL ONTARIO – A well-known and well-liked Cornwall Transit driver made his final stop on Wednesday after a lengthy career with the service.
Driver Gilles Lafrance drove his familiar Pitt-McConnell bus to the Downtown transfer point Wednesday morning and walked off the bus into retirement after a 28-year career with Cornwall Transit. Family, co-workers and even some passengers were waiting to greet Mr. Lafrance and wish him well.
Mr. Lafrance said he will miss the friendships with co-workers and passengers the most.
“The people and the drivers,” he said. “We are like family. We enjoy the company.”
As for the biggest challenge for the long-time bus driver, the answer was simple.
“Keep on time,” he said with a laugh.
Transit Manager Len Tapp said Mr. Lafrance was one of the most senior drivers and one of the most popular as well with both co-workers and passengers.
“You couldn’t ask for a better employee,” said Mr. Tapp. “He is friendly with everyone and he just loved his job.”
As for the future, Mr. Lafrance and his wife Diane plan to do some traveling in their retirement. Mr. Lafrance also plans to continue volunteering his time with different organizations including the Knights of Columbus and the Army Navy Air Force Club.