Since starting her career in 1969, Nancy Rynders has been more than just a bus driver. She has been a trusted guide, a friendly face, and a steady presence in the lives of Livonia students and families. Through rain, snow, and sunshine, she has safely transported generations of Bulldogs, watching students grow from eager kindergartners to high school graduates.
Superintendent Jeremy Lonneville shared his appreciation for Nancy’s incredible dedication at the Board of Education meeting on February 24th, celebrating her retirement: "Nancy’s service to Livonia Central School District is nothing short of extraordinary. Her commitment to the safety and well-being of our students over five decades speaks volumes about her character, work ethic, and love for this community. She will always be a part of the Bulldog family."
Nancy’s impact extends beyond the driver’s seat. She always made an effort to get to know each student personally. Charlie Bassett, one of her riders, shared, "She always knows everyone's name and is very flexible with me. She keeps us safe." She has built lasting relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, becoming an integral part of the Livonia transportation team. She was also a trailblazer in her field, becoming one of the first female bus drivers in Livonia alongside Rosie Tolwell. "I started out driving a pusher, where the motor is in the back. I liked the pushers because you could see more. Then I switched to a standard shift bus. That was fun, especially when we had to stop at the railroad tracks in Livonia on an incline—I stalled it many times! My first year, I only had one run twice a day," Nancy recalled.
Transportation Supervisor Bob Orman expressed gratitude for Nancy’s years of service: "Over the span of an exceptional 55-year career, Nancy's unwavering dedication, unparalleled work ethic, and steadfast commitment to Livonia's students' safety has left an enduring legacy. Nancy's contributions have not only driven the success of Livonia Transportation but have also set a benchmark for excellence, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her."
Nancy’s career was marked not only by her dedication but by her quick thinking and heroism. In 1982, she was awarded the Outstanding Citizenship Award by Livonia Cub Scout Pack 74 after saving a choking student’s life while on her route. "I was about to tell him to sit down when I noticed he was choking. I pulled over and did the Heimlich maneuver. He spit up a hard candy. From then on, no eating was allowed on the bus."
Over the years, Nancy became a beloved presence in the community, not only for her dedication to students but also for her warm spirit. She was known for her famous punch at bus garage gatherings and for always making every student feel welcome and safe. "I often run into former students who say, ‘You were my bus driver!’ Sometimes, I don’t remember them right away, but I ask where they lived, and it all comes back. I’ve driven many routes and know most of the roads around Livonia. I’ve also driven in all kinds of weather—rain, snow, sleet, and ice—just like a postal worker, we still pick up and deliver! I started with bus 25 and ended with bus 203."
Although she retired in 2005, Nancy couldn’t stay away for long. She returned as a substitute driver before taking a position driving a minibus for special needs students. "I got to know some of the parents and teachers, and I even had a couple of students from kindergarten until they graduated." Michael Marusiak was one of those students and shared, "Miss Nancy always played WBEE and hit all the good bumps in the road." She is so much a part of the Marusiak family that she attended Michael’s birthday party just this past weekend, a testament to the lasting bonds she has formed with her students and their families. His family shared the following: "Ms. Nancy was more than just a bus driver. She made our family feel comforted, knowing our kids would get to school safely. She also became a great friend who always supported our family. She always looked out for our kids as if they were her own. She will be greatly missed."
Nancy’s influence extended beyond the daily bus route—she was also a part of countless field trips. "I drove many field trips, including two trips with the chorus to Hershey Park in Pennsylvania and Cedar Point in Ohio. I also took kids on ski trips, sports trips, pumpkin patch visits, Geva Theatre performances, and the Strong Museum." Aiden Reilly, who spent many years riding Nancy’s bus, said, "We will miss Miss Nancy. She made me feel safe and she was a good driver. She took us wherever we wanted to go."
Since 2020, Nancy has faced several health challenges, including a knee and hip replacement. In October of 2024, she fractured her pelvis "I think the good Lord is telling me it’s time to retire," she said. During a recent visit to the bus garage, she asked about one of her students who had been facing health challenges—because for Nancy, these kids were never just passengers; they were part of her extended family. As a final request, Nancy asked to keep her 'Best Bus Driver' keychain, a gift from one of her students, which had been on the keys to Bus 203—a small token of the immense impact she has had on generations of Livonia students. While we will miss seeing Nancy behind the wheel, her legacy of care and commitment will continue to roll through the streets of Livonia.
Looking back, Nancy expressed her gratitude: "I can say I enjoyed driving. There were some stressful days, but I made it through. I thank everyone for their support over the years—it has been greatly appreciated. Best wishes to everyone and happy trails!"
Thank you, Nancy Rynders, for 55 years of service, dedication, and Bulldog Pride!
