A shop owner in Lynn, Massachusetts, received recognition from local and state leaders for the nearly six decades of service he’s provided to the community, the Daily Item reports.
Rod Deland has owned and operated R&R American for the past 56 years. Having a genuine passion for his work, he has worked throughout his career to stay up-to-date with automotive technology, regularly attending educational classes and keeping his shop walls covered in shelves of books and manuals.
Though there’s no other career he’d rather be in, he’s reached the age where he feels ready to retire.
“I got up one day and said, ‘50 hours a week? I’m 76, I’ve had enough,’” said Deland.
Having become a staple of Lynn, this past weekend Deland was presented with citations from Mayor Jared Nicholson, State Rep. Dan Cahill, and State Sen. Brendan Crighton, commemorating his contributions to the community.
Rep. Cahill described R&R American as being an iconic part of the town, while Sen. Crighton was touched by the candy and toys they provided to his children at the event.
“I stopped by on your last day … I was just so touched by your reflections on so many decades of service to this community, particularly your pride and all the folks you’ve helped along the way,” said Mayor Nicholson.
Deland has undoubtedly earned his retirement. When asked what he plans to do next, his reply was “what he wants, when he wants.”
