MILWAUKEE — A beloved Milwaukee mail carrier has retired after three decades of service.

Michael Boothe or “Mailman Mike” is now being thanked by the community. Residents said he did more than just deliver the mail — he delivered positivity. 

The Riverwest neighborhood has hosted several retirement parties for Boothe. The most recent was at the Riverwest Farmers’ Market. 

This time, Boothe received the letters and packages. It was a way for people to say thank you for Boothe’s part in brightening up their community. 

“People are reciprocating the love I’ve been giving them for the last 20 years,” said Boothe. “I’m walking through their community every day. I’m here more than I’m home. So why not spread cheer? That’s what I do at my house.” 

The Milwaukee Common Council even honored him for his service. 

“Not everybody wants to be happy,” said Boothe. “Unfortunately, when I was a young man, that was the only option I had. It’s control your attitude and enjoy life.” 

Resident and local artist Brandon Oaks delivered a special painting to Boothe to thank him for being a role model to his two children over the past five years. 

“I think the first time Mike connected with us they were out riding their bikes on the sidewalk and he came and said hey to them and told them to be a good guy,” said Oaks. “He said that every day, every time he saw them. Now they say that to each other and to other kids. The positivity is just a beautiful thing.” 

Oaks jokingly said it’s time to move out of Riverwest now that Boothe is retiring. 

The neighborhood gave him one last gift: his own mailbox signed by the residents he delivered to.

“Maybe we could all be a little nicer to each other,” said Boothe. “What’s wrong with me saying good morning or afternoon? I got to be at work. I need the money. Well, I don’t no more.” 

While his mail career has come to an end, he said he’ll continue to spread joy as he embarks on retirement traveling the world. His first stop is Italy