John DiPuma, who worked for the University Transit Service and drove the Green Route and Central Grounds Shuttle, died on Aug. 14 in Charlottesville. He was 48.

At the age of 14, DiPuma received a transplanted kidney from his father. He had a deep appreciation for that gift and the 25 years of life it made possible for him before kidney failure left him again needing dialysis.

On the job, passengers and co-workers affectionately nicknamed him "Bulldog" because of his cheerfulness and determination in spite of his health problems.

From the Charlottesville Daily Progress