Randy Cordova

The Republic | azcentral.com

TV personality Rick D'Amico, a fixture on Channel 10 (KSAZ) since the '80s, announced in the Fox newsroom on Wednesday, June 1, that he will retire from the station. His last day will be Aug. 1.

RELATED: Rick D'Amico from 'Fox 10 Arizona Morning' gives reasons for retirement after 30 years​ | Troy Hayden to replace Rick D'Amico on Fox 10 morning show | Emma Jade announces pregnancy, new Channel 12 gig

“This was an extremely difficult decision to make, because working here at Fox 10 has been the most exciting, rewarding and fun thing I’ve ever done in my career," D'Amico said in a statement. "Thirty years is a long time in television news, and I’ve certainly seen a lot of changes, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the most wonderful people I’ve had the opportunity to work with. I probably won’t miss waking up early in the morning, but I certainly will miss the people."

D'Amico, who joined the station in 1987, established himself as one of the Valley's most personable and trustworthy personalities. His lighthearted banter with co-anchor Ron Hoon on the station's morning show is one of the trademarks of the program.

Things To Do app: Get the best in events, dining and travel right on your device

"Rick is truly one of a kind," said Doug Bannard, vice president and news director at KSAZ, said in a release. "He has been a key part of the Fox 10 family for nearly 30 years — the last 19 of which he co-hosted ‘Fox 10 Arizona Morning.’ He’s an amazing broadcaster who lights up the screen as well as the newsroom. We will miss Rick’s infectious smile, curiosity and incredible breadth of experience.”

D'Amico began his media career working as a disc jockey while service in the Air Force. He eventually spent 19 years on radio, with gigs in Ohio and Pennsylvania.

He moved to television and worked as a weatherman in Lansing, Mich. He came to Phoenix to do weather at Channel 10 before being promoted to news anchor. He moved to his current gig as one of the hosts of the station's "Fox 10 Arizona Morning" in 1997, when the program was launched. Hoon joined a few months later, making them one of the longest-running teams currently on morning TV, if not the longest.

MORE AZCENTRAL ON SOCIAL: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

D'Amico has won an Emmy and two Associated Press Awards. His interview subjects have included President Ronald Reagan and President Bill Clinton.

As for the future? D'Amico says he plans to take it easy.

"At this stage in my life, I just feel the time is right to spend less time focusing on career and more time with my wife and granddaughter, and you know, just to kick back and enjoy life."