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13 March 2024
NORTH NEWTON, Kan. (KSNW) – A man in North Newton is making the most out of his job, bringing joy to each person who crosses his path.
Just off old Highway 81 in Newton is Northridge Elementary School. On the way to campus, you’ll probably come across a friendly face.
For the last seven years, crossing guard Bruce Funk has helped kids get to school safely.
“I guess time flies when you’re having fun,” said Mr. Bruce. “I’m in charge of this crosswalk over here and the kids that come from North Newton.”
He makes an impression on everyone crossing his tracks.
“Mr. Bruce’s smile and wave always – it just gives you a second to breathe and smile, and it just turns your mood around very quickly,” said Katlyn Robinson, who drives past Mr. Bruce every morning.
“We roll down our windows, wave at Bruce real big, and it’s just a great way to start the morning,” said Nash Pool and Jana Murrow, who also drive past Mr. Bruce every morning.
Mr. Bruce’s smile and wave are a part of people’s daily routines.
“We head out from home, and even though I don’t have to go past Bruce, I make it a point to go past Bruce,” said Pool and Murrow.
“Every morning, I roll down the back window so the girls can wave,” said Robinson.
The joy he brings all is returned.
“That’s what keeps me coming back. That’s what gets me up in the morning is seeing these people coming by and knowing that they’re gonna wave big time,” said Mr. Bruce.
Whether passing on foot or by car, Mr. Bruce will continue guarding people crossing and making friends on the road.