Andries Lusie, who has been the DIY man of the Randfontein Primary School for the past 25 years, will hold on to many good memories after his retirement.

He retires at the end of the year. Born and bred in Hofstede, Free State, the 64-year-old said since being appointed at the school in 1995 he has done a variety of jobs there, among them cleaner, driver, electrician and even plumber.

To Andries his job was more than just employment – it was his life.

I’m happy to have worked at the school for many years, maintaining a good relationship with everyone,” he said. Among the things he said he would miss is interacting with the learners and staff members with whom he has built a relationship.

He said he got the job at the school after he was recommended by a former employer. Since then, he has enjoyed to see many learners growing into successful adults.

“Some of the children grew up to be teachers at the school. It was really great to see that,” he added.

He said he has learned many life lessons, like treating everyone with the utmost respect. “I always treated parents of the school learners with respect and never raised my voice at them when there was tension or a misunderstanding,” he said.

He added that the mutual respect between him and the school’s staff, and even the children, was something he truly enjoyed. “The jokes I shared with them will make me miss them terribly.

This school was home away from home. I was there for them when they needed me, and they have shown me their appreciation.

I have also been a parent to former learners of this school. I’m very proud to have given my life to a school that has shaped children into great people of this town, children who have come back to the same school to impart the value of education to the new generation,” Andries said.