WEST MILFORD One of West Milford’s best-known and well-loved employees retired last week. After nearly 60 years of service, the town’s registrar, Edwin R. Rodda, has hung up his boots, after starting in the job on September 19, 1947. While Rodda was stepping into his new position, America was experiencing a great deal, also. Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi were reeling in the face of the Fort Lauderdale Hurricane which cost 51 lives. Jackie Robinson became the first African-American to take his place on a professional baseball diamond; Howard Hughes took his Spruce Goose on its maiden flight; and President Harry S. Truman was facing up to the red menace. Anyone born or married in town in the second half of the 20th century will see the familiar name Ed Rodda on their licenses but all good things come to an end: The township held a final farewell celebration for Rodda in the main meeting room for colleagues, dignitaries and all others who wished to join in the occasion. Many spoke to honor Rodda, and in the mark of a truly consistent man, the same attributes appeared repeatedly: a real gentleman; the nicest man you could ever meet; always immaculately dressed. Whether used to such praise or not, Rodda was quick to respond to it, “Is there a carpenter here? I’m afraid my head is swelling so big I might not fit out the door.” When Rodda was appointed, he worked from his home on Kanouse Road, Newfoundland. He said, “It was common for town employees to work from home at that time with a few exceptions such as the police, the town clerk and the tax assessor.” If you ask Rodda what’s changed in the town during his time he’ll look at you and say, “I would have to sit down for a year before I could answer that.” Longevity runs in the Rodda family, “My father lived till he was 102, and was still working at the age of 100,” he said. So, what’s the secret? If you wanted to know how to live long, healthy and happy in the same job for 60 years, what would you need? “Coffee,” said Rodda, “lots and lots of coffee.”