Ted Johnston was more than just another City of Ripon employee.

To many, he was a good friend.

The former Director of Public Works retired earlier this month. Earlier this month, the Ripon City Council honored Johnston for his years of service with a proclamation.

Newly sworn Mayor Jake Parks had the honor of presenting him with the special recognition during the monthly meeting.

“Ted will be sorely missed by colleagues and the community,” Parks said. “But he has earned the title of retiree.”

During his 42 years of service to the city, Johnston came aboard on Aug. 18, 1977, working as a garbage collector while advancing through various assignments.

By 1986, he was a maintenance worker to the building inspector.

Johnston became Public Works Supervisor in 1992 and, seven years later, was named the Director of Public Works.

He did above and beyond what was expected, Parks noted.

“He provided exceptional service while maintaining the city parks, streets and water / sewer / storm systems, and provided solid waste collection service,” he said.

Johnston made possible the curbside yard waste pick-up along with the community garage sale ad the large item pick-up programs.

His greatest accomplishment may have been the Mistlin Sports Park.

“He played a key role in designing and installing the turf and irrigation system for this important regional park that now attracts thousands of visitors to Ripon each year,” Parks said.