June 2012: Kerry Ross

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Each month RTD encourages passengers to nominate a bus driver or light rail operator who goes above and beyond to make their experience memorable. This month’s winning nomination goes to Route 12 bus driver, Kerry Ross. The 12 travels north and south from the Wagon Road Park-n-Ride to the Englewood Station.

His nomination was submitted by Tonya Solano, who was impressed with Kerry’s caring approach towards her son.

"I’m writing today to give recognition to the bus driver of the Route 12. My 12-year-old-son rides this bus every day after school to get home. Today, on his way home he fell asleep on the bus and missed his stop. When he woke up and realized he was almost downtown, he became frightened and didn’t know how to handle the situation on his own. He had forgotten his phone at home and had no way of contacting me or my husband, and he had no money to catch the bus back to his original destination. When he informed the driver of this, the driver was very nice to my son, reassuring him that everything would be alright. He gave him a transfer for the bus ride home and contacted the driver on the other route to see how long my son would have to wait. He also informed the other driver about the situation and asked her to make sure my son made it to his stop, which she did. I just want to say thank you to both of these drivers but especially to Kerry for being so kind and considerate to my son in his time of need. I’ve always been a little weary about my son riding the bus on his own but knowing that RTD has wonderful drivers helps to ease my mind. Again, a huge thank you!"

After receiving the commendation from Tonya, we wanted to know more about Kerry and he graciously agreed to answer a few of our questions.

How long have you worked for RTD and have you always been a driver?
I started working for RTD in May 10, 1991 so it's been a great 20+ years, and always as a driver

What were you in a previous life?
Let's see, how about an explorer to foreign lands like Marco Polo

What do you like best about driving?
Meeting people is the best, especially when you haven't seen them for a while

If you could listen to music while working, what type?
Pat Metheny jazz is the best. The beat makes you want to move, but not out of my seat…LOL

If you could deck out your bus, what style?
Wow, how about like an old hippie van from San Francisco

If you could change your uniform color, what color or does brown/gray go with your eyes?
I'd like a red shirt, not too bright, with grey slacks

What type of service would you drive if given the choice and/or favorite service to drive?
Mountain driving in the summer and cruising in a 2800 is the best

What are your favorite hobbies or activities?
I like to hike late summer afternoon and evenings, after storms with lightning have passed. One of these days, I want to witness a sunset with a green flash, you should check out this phenomenon on the internet it’s pretty cool. I also enjoy baking bread and reading.