HAY RIVER - After more than 43 years, Richard Lafferty deserved a big send-off and he got one.

On April 4, family, friends, co-workers and GNWT representatives gathered in Hay River for Lafferty's retirement party.

GNWT employee Richard Lafferty, along with grandchildren Treiva and Chad Plamondon, open some of the many gifts at his April 4 retirement party. - Paul Bickford/NNSL photo

The regional manager of highway operations in the South Slave was honoured as the longest-serving territorial employee.

"It was very nice," he said of the send-off, which attracted about 75 people. "It surprised me to have so many people show up."

Lafferty, who also happens to be a well-known Metis fiddler, said he is looking forward to his retirement and may travel more to play his music.

His last day of work was April 5.

Asked whether he will miss his work, Lafferty laughed and replied, "I don't know, yet."

NWT Commissioner Tony Whitford said Lafferty - whom he called "Mr. Highways Guy" - gave many years of service to help ensure the safety of the travelling public.

The commissioner said Lafferty was a role model for a long and successful career with the government.

Robert Sanderson, the GNWT's regional director for the South Slave, also offered congratulations on Lafferty's 43 years of service.

"I don't think there'll be anyone who will beat that record for a while," said Sanderson, who also read a letter of congratulations from Premier Joe Handley.

Transportation Minister Kevin Menicoche said Lafferty's 43 years of service showed an extraordinary commitment to the work that he loved.