Numerous residents, area police officers and town employees came out to offer best wishes to Donald Hull as he retires as Canton's Deputy Police Chief and takes the helm at the Stowe, VT department. 

The party was held at LaTrattoria and included remarks from several in the police field, a slide show of Hull's career and personal life and a few gifts. Sgt. Mark Penney served as emcee for the evening. 

Former police chief Lowell Humphrey shared some humorous stories about Hull but also thanked him for his support. 

"There's nothing I can say except thank you for everything you've done for me over the years," he said. 

Hull has been full time in Canton since 1984. A 1978 graduate of Lewis S. Mills High School in Burlington, he also received an associate's degree in criminal justice from Roger Williams in Rhode Island. After a stint conducting in-house investigations for Traveler's Insurance, he moved over to police work, starting part time in Burlington and then becoming part time in Canton in 1982. 

After serving as an officer, canine handler, detective and sergeant, Hull became deputy chief in 2001. In 2010, when police chief John Murphy left after three months on the job, some in town wanted Hull appointed to the post. 

Current police chief Christopher Arciero said Hull was more than gracious when he started some 15 months ago, even giving him a ride to the department on his first day. And Arciero said he's appreciated the experience Hull had in town and his impact on the department. 

"I was very impressed with the consistency Don brought to the Canton Police Department," Arciero said. 

Hull's last day in Canton is Friday. He begins his new job the following Monday.