By Emmy Moore, Special to The Democrat
For nearly 23 years, Dan Hazlip has been faithfully delivering mail and packages to the over 380 Woodland residences along his route.
“Dan the Mailman,” finished his last delivery day on Jan. 15, and retired as one of Woodland’s most beloved mail carriers.
Hazlip, a resident of Knights Landing, will now enjoy retirement with his wife, Nancy, a former Woodland mail carrier who retired a few years ago. As fate would have it, the two USPS employees met at the Woodland post office.
Woodland residents on Hazlip’s route were hoping to host a retirement party for him, but it was not possible due to COVID-19 protocols. So, some neighbors on Hazlip’s route, got creative and shifted to Plan B, and surprised him along his route.
“Happy retirement” and “thank you mailman Dan” signs appeared in front yards, porches and even on a few street corners. Cards were taped outside mailboxes and on front doors by scores of residents who wanted to personally thank the ever-so-kind mail carrier. A few creative kids wrote a big thank-you note with chalk that took up most of the driveway at their grandma’s house. Colorful celebratory balloons added to the festivity and one resident even tied a balloon to the back of Hazlip’s mail truck, along with a farewell sign to their favorite mailman.
In a court near Rancho Way, neighbors created a special tribute table filled with a series of images of Hazlip. The unique curation was supported by spirited retirement signs and bright balloons. As Hazlip entered the court, music blared. The song selection was appropriate — “Please Mr. Postman” by the Marvelettes. While Hazlip was masked-up, nothing could hide the beaming smile under his mask.
Hazlip served 21 years in the Navy and has the respect of many. On his last day, Hazlip’s supervisor joined him on part of his route. On another part of the route, Hazlip was joined by one of his long-time customers who captured photos of him as residents expressed their genuine thanks.
Several four-footed friends joined their masters and scurried up to say their goodbyes too. And yes, at times throughout the celebration, the day’s theme song “Please Mr. Postman” was blasting from an iPhone at the curbside. On more than one occasion, residents started singing along, others danced in their doorways as they said their final farewells and heart-tugging goodbyes to a man, who was not only a mail carrier, but a friend.
Hazlip plans on replacing his mailbag with a fishing pole and golf clubs. He also looks forward to spending more time with his wife and enjoying their two-acre garden, which is filled with fruit trees, an ideal spot for a little R & R.
