He's retiring but not going out to pasture.
Longtime South Delta businessman Noel Roddick is stepping down from his fertilizer operation after more than 40 years in the industry.
Many customers, family, friends and members of Delta council were on hand at Roddick's annual customer appreciation barbecue at his Westham Island farm Friday to congratulate him.
"I'm not going out to pasture just yet," laughed Rodddick, 73.
Born in Hereford, England, Roddick established Noel Roddick Ltd. in the early 1970s, selling the business, now located on 40th Street in Ladner, a few years ago. Now called Roddick Feed and Farm Supplies, he stayed on in a sales role and still owns the property, which once was home to B.C. Sugar.
"Every year I was going to retire but didn't. This time I really am," he said.
His wife Val, the former Liberal MLA for Delta South, said she couldn't be happier they'll be able spend even more time together, but laughed how her husband isn't the type to kick up his heels and relax.
They have two children, Kate and Tim, and two grandkids.
Noel said he intends to keep his Westham Island farm and may even bring in some cattle, which he had years earlier.
"He's really been incredibly interested in farming and the farm," Val said, "so it's going to be interesting how he really retires."
Noel, who recently acquired a puppy to help keep busy, also owns a racehorse called Dilwyn, which recently won at Hastings Park. The mare and grandmother live at Roddick's farm.
Noel, vice-chair of the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust, also intends to remain active by volunteering in the agricultural community.
