The members and officers of Gleason Depot in Brooklyn are in mourning over the loss of Bus Operator Miguel Chumpitaz, one of the most beloved workers at the facility. He was 60 years of age and had nearly 22 years on the job.
Scores of brokenhearted co-workers at Gleason posted emotional tributes to Miguel, like this one: “Just received the news of my long time Road Warrior from Gleason Depot, Miguel Chumpitaz, who has been Dispatched for Eternal Rest. For over two plus decades, we worked side by side through numerous situations moveing the people of New York and did so with kindness, joyful and loving spirit and with great determination. He enjoyed LIFE to the fullest and was admired, respected and loved . . . I will treasure all of the FUN TIMES we shared ON and OFF the Road. Rest in Peace, Road Warrior, you were truly one of a kind and will be truly MISSED."
Brother Chumpitaz was born and raised in Lima, Peru. He attended the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos to study economics before coming to the U.S.
TAS Vice President JP Patafio, who worked alongside him at Gleason, said: “Miguel was one of those people who always brightened up the room with a smile and a joke. He worked hard and never complained, one of those members who others looked to for a little sunshine and he never disappointed. He will be sorely missed.”
Local 100 President Tony Utano, added his condolences: “My heart goes out to Miguel’s family and the many, many friends he had at Gleason and across TA Surface. May he rest in peace.”
