People celebrate their retirement in various ways; some celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in their lives with family and friends, and some just quietly slide into retirement. But if you are Local 776 UPS Member Bill Long you celebrate at a surprise party thrown by the people from the town where you delivered!

Bill worked for UPS for 35 years as a delivery driver and all of those 35 years were spent delivering in the town of Dover, PA, and the surrounding area. Fellow UPS driver Justin Seitz got the ball rolling on the party by first talking to the superintendent of Dover High School to have the party held there; the date was set for October 25th. Next, a message about Bill’s retirement was posted on the Dover Facebook page; quickly 800 people responded to the news about Bill retiring. Dover High School got involved again by calling UPS on the 25^th for a package to be picked up at the school but that it would not be ready until 6:30 that evening. As Bill drove onto the school grounds a police escort met him, surprised to see the parking lot full of people; his customers, with signs, and balloons wishing him a happy retirement! Throughout the 35 years that Bill was the town's “UPS Man,” he made many friends, having been invited to weddings, birthdays, and unfortunately funerals through four generations of townspeople.

Once out of the UPS truck, there were many congratulations, handshakes, and hugs from the approximately 700 townspeople who came out to give Bill a retirement send-off. Afterward, Bill commented that he probably gained 10 pounds just from the cake and treats he had eaten that night!

Also, WGAL TV 8 was there to cover the story which then aired on the nightly news. To view the WGAL video follow the link below:

Retirement Video

Teamsters Local 776 Business Agent Dave Wolf was there representing the Local to wish Bill the best in retirement and take some of the attached pictures. From everyone at Local 776 Happy Retirement Bill!

A police escort started Bill's retirement send-off!

The crowd on hand to say goodbye to Bill was estimated at 700 people!

Wishes for Bill were spread across town!

Bill has his name and image in lights on a billboard!

It was Bill's night to be honored for a job well done!

Local 776 Member Justin Seitz congratulates Bill on his retirement!