Veteran news and sports anchor Andy Gannon said he will retire on August 1 after more than 42 years at WIFR in Rockford, Illinois.

“This has literally been the job of my lifetime. I started at WIFR nine months after graduating from college. I have been here ever since,” Gannon said. “I am eternally thankful for my family of relatives and friends that have been so vital to me these 42 and a half years. I am eternally thankful the stateline community has made me a part of your family. I will miss the many interactions we have shared over the years. Thank you, one and all!”

The Wisconsin native, started working at the CBS station WIFR in 1983 as a weekend sports anchor. He also worked as sports director before moving to the mornings in the mid-nineties.