Mike Herr, Penn State’s most beloved mailman, announced that he is officially retiring on April 1 – exactly 48 years after his first day as a United State Postal Service employee at the State College office in 1968. The Centre Daily Times first reported the story.

Herr’s positive personality speaks beyond measures, and transformed him quickly into one of the most recognizable and well-known Penn State celebrities both on and off campus. His decision to retire on this day most accurately illustrates his fun-loving humor and wittiness, showing how easily he brings smiles to the faces of everyone that visits him.

Penn State even devoted an entire day to his good-natured and optimistic attitude where the entire campus celebrated his outstanding dedication. His passion for mail carrying also opened tons of doors for him to be quite ubiquitous on campus, most notably his involvement with THON during mail call hours since 1990.

Aside from his superstar status in Happy Valley, Herr’s has also been featured on the CBS Evening News  where he broadcasted his irrevocably friendly personality to the nation.

In his retirement, Herr’s plans include spending more time at home and, of course, continuing to attend as many Penn State sporting events as he possibly can, as well as other functions. He also plans on publishing a book about his experiences at Penn State, which he is already in the process of writing.

“Once I’m finished with my book, I’ll need to find a publisher, and then I would love to tour around the country with my wife, speaking to every single PSU alumni chapter,” he told the CDT. “This way we can accomplish two of our goals, staying connected with the university and traveling the country.”

Happy Valley students and community members will undoubtedly miss everything he does for the university, and it’s clear that Herr will always hold a special place in Penn State’s hearts.