HAMILTON, Michigan — When the first morning bell rang at Hamilton High School Thursday morning, nothing was amiss.
The buses were rumbling from the parking lot. Shoes were squeaking on the linoleum floors from late arrivals rushing to class. Chuck Brueker was sweeping the cafeteria before the lunch rush.
It's been that same routine every morning for 47 years. But today is different. Today is Chuck's last morning with that broom, as he looks onward to retirement.
"It's been a great place to be at," he smiled.
Chuck grew up in Graafschap, on the other side of Allegan County.
"My parents told me that I was on the bus longer than in school," he said.
He went to Hamilton Elementary, then a mile down the road to Hamilton Middle, then graduated a half mile further at Hamilton High. That's where he spent the next 47 years.
"When I went to school, a lot of buildings were a two-room school building, but now you got huge buildings with multiple classrooms," said Chuck.
Over nearly five decades, Chuck has become somewhat of a legend. Walking down the hallway, he's constantly met with students calling his name.
"[I get] high five, knuckles. Sometimes I get hugs, especially in these days," he said. "Saying good morning to the students and getting a response back, 'hi' or 'good morning,' that's what I love."
It helps that he works with some students that are extra special to him. He has three grandsons in Hamilton schools, from seventh grade to juniors.
"That's one reason why I love this job," he smiled. "Whenever they see me, they yell, 'Grandpa!,' and that touches me and makes my day, when I'm known as Grandpa."
For 47 years of service, the retirement celebration was one to remember.
"It's been a great day. The first thing that happened to me this morning was I was given this jersey by the football players," he said, pointing to the jersey he was wearing with the number 47 printed on it.
It was his grandsons who presented it to him.
But they weren't the only ones in on a surprise. The entire lunchroom lined up at the end of the period to give Chuck high-fives, fist bumps and hugs as they left the cafeteria. He was elated.
"It's sadness but happy tears," Chuck smiled. "This is something I will never forget."
