He will finally be able to sleep in.

After 30 years as a Meteorologist at WILX (Lansing), Darrin Rockcole has decided to retire from the Gray station.

“It was a good run to make it 30 years at a small market TV station,” Rockcole says . “Thirty years is a long time to get up in the middle of the night and head into work. I just want you to know I loved my job and did it for you.”

I’m also guessing he did it for the paycheck, but he didn’t mention that.

Rockcole came to WILX in 1989, and became the Chief Meteorologist in 1996. 

WILX General Manager Debbie Petersmark said she is disappointed but understands if it’s something Darrin feels he needs to do at this time. " I was surprised as anyone with his decision, but I respect his personal reasons.” Petersmark also commented that she, like many of our viewers spent much of her life waking up and watching his weathercasts and she knows he will be missed.

And according to the station’s website, Petersmark added, “His will be big shoes to fill.”