Erin (Melendy) Wulffenstein grew up in Hennessey, Oklahoma. Her parents are Tawna Melendy and Mark Henry, and she has two siblings, Corey and Levi Melendy. Erin graduated from Hennessey High School in 2001. During high school, she worked at Ferrell Vet for two years, and after graduating, she took a job at daycare centers in Enid.
In 2017, Erin became a bus driver for Enid High School, where she worked for 12 years, primarily with children with severe and profound disabilities. After that, she returned to Hennessey Public Schools, where she continues to make a difference. Erin is well-known and respected in the school community; she is truly a lifeline for many. Her roles are diverse—she drives a regular bus route and takes students on field trips, performs maintenance work, catches animals, and handles custodial tasks. Erin is a remarkable individual who wears many hats.
Always bringing a smile and a positive attitude, Erin enjoys her job immensely. In 2004, she married the love of her life, Gary Wulffenstein, and they have happily celebrated 21 years together. Erin has a stepdaughter and four grandchildren. When she isn’t at school, you’ll likely find her at the farm, which is her happy place. She raises bottle calves and chickens there, and both Erin and Gary love activities such as kayaking and racing RC cars.
Erin’s love and empathy extend not only to people but also to the animals she raises and rescues. Any animal that finds its way to Erin’s farm is fortunate, as they truly find Heaven on Earth with her. No one dedicates more time or offers more love than she does. So, if you see Erin driving the bus, give her a wave; she’s either taking kids to school or back home, all while preparing to rescue more animals.
Everyone can learn from knowing Erin or even hearing about her—sometimes, all it takes is a little care, kindness, and a willingness to help one another. Erin exemplifies this philosophy every single day. AAH, Shelley Muzny
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