Wayland Union Schools bus driver Russ Porteus died of Covid-19 Monday night. He was 52.

Porteus had worked in maintenance for the school system over the last two years after becoming a bus driver in 2013. He also was active in ticket taking at athletic events and and with summer maintenance jobs.

Porteus, affectionately known as “Mr. P.” by students, received an Outstanding People for Education award in 2020, with the honors including the statement that “He makes students feel comfortable while riding the bus and always has a smile on his face and a kind word to share. Russ does an outstanding job reassuring nervous parents and helping students who were treated unfairly on the bus.”

Maintenance Supervisor John Huyck said, “Russ had a positive influence on our students and staff, and that will never be forgotten.”

Supt. Dr. Christina Hinds said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our staff members and he express our heartfelt sympathy to Russ’ family. He will be truly missed by Wayland Union Schools and the community.”

Bowling coach Sherry Miklusicak said, “Russ Porteous wasn’t only a father to us, he was our bus driver, cheerleader and our way home from Saturday events. He stayed to watch his daughter, Erin Porteous, bowl on one of our dynamic girls’ teams and then we had a way home.

“Russ was also a co-worker of mine at Wayland Union Schools. He was simply a very nice man who could brighten your day.”

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at the Wayland Union Fine Arts Center – Grand Hall, 870 E. Superior St. Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 31, at the Wayland Union Fine Arts Centerlwith visitation one hour prior to the service.

In memory of Russ and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The WUS Athletic Boosters.