Our crossing guards, Mr. Lipsou and Mr. Villareal, who, along with Pablo, keep our community safe at drop-off and pick-up?
Mr. Lipsou (corner of 80th and 1st) was born in Cyprus (Greece) and came to Seattle in 1975. This is his fourth year as a crossing guard, and his third at St. John. Before becoming a crossing guard, Mr. Lipsou worked in the restaurant industry and then for the city. His daughter also works for the city. In his spare time, Mr. Lipsou likes to go boating and fishing. He loves his role as a crossing guard because he enjoys interacting with people, especially St. John families because “they are so friendly and caring.”
Mr. Villareal (corner of 79th and 1st) is from San Antonio, Texas but “married into the state,” as his wife is a native Washingtonian. Mr. Villareal has two sons and four grandchildren, who live in S. California. Before Mr. Villareal became a crossing guard, he was a Master Chief in the Navy and then a civil servant. The Villareals are very involved in Viva, non-profit that awards scholarships to Hispanic community college students. Sadly for St. John, Mr. Villareal is retiring after this year. He and his wife plan to travel across the country to visit friends and family. We will miss you when you leave, Mr. Villareal!
When you see Mr. Lipsou and Mr. Villareal, remember to say “hi” and thank them for keeping our families safe in sun, rain, wind and snow! Thank you, Mr. Lipsou and Mr. Villareal!
