Driving couple retires
JACKSON TWP — The Seneca Valley School Board on Monday night paid tribute to a married couple who retired after driving school buses in the district for a combined 71 years.
Frank and Rose Spithaler of Evans City recently retired from AJ Myers and Sons and were recognized by the school board for their service.
It was in 1976 that Rose Spithaler started driving students while her husband followed three years later.
They became fixtures in the district while they both often drove sports teams and student clubs to and from activities.
According to school officials, the couple has been married for 54 years and had five children who all went through Seneca Valley.
Superintendent Tracy Vitale congratulated the couple on their “well deserved” retirement and wished them well.
“Your devotion to AJ Myers, Seneca Valley and the safety of our children is exemplary,” she said.
Board member the Rev. Reid Moon, also a bus driver for the district, knows both of the Spithalers and said their commitment to the district is second to none.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” he said. “I know the love you have for the district and its kids.”
For his part, Frank Spithaler said he will miss working with the district every day. But that doesn't mean he's not ready for retirement.
“I've been punching a time clock since 1957, longer than some of you have been alive,” he said when addressing the school board. “Now it's my turn. No more getting up at 5 a.m. That sounds good.”
Kurt Scheidemantle is the terminal manager for the AJ Myers' station that services the Seneca Valley School District.
He said Rose Spithaler started driving buses back when he was a senior in high school, a time when Scheidemantle's father ran the garage.
On Wednesday, the terminal manager said he's glad the couple finally gets to relax after so many years behind the wheel. But that doesn't mean he's happy to see them go.
“They were excellent, always willing to put the extra effort in,” he said. “It was really nice having them around and it's a shame to see them retire. But it'll also be nice to see them enjoy themselves.” Scheidemantle said he'll miss all of Frank's funny stories and the couple's dedication to their work.
