John Musker is retiring from Walt Disney Animation Studios after 40 years.

Starting at Disney in 1977, Musker, 64, had been a key figure at the Disney animation studio since the early-1980s, where he co-directed and co-wrote seven features with his creative partner Ron Clements: The Great Mouse Detective, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Hercules, Treasure Planet, The Princess and the Frog, and Moana. It’s a monumental and admirable filmmaking legacy – and we can only hope that Musker will someday talk about his experiences making those films and working at the studio in an autobiography.

On Sunday afternoon, a retirement party was held for Musker at the Pickwick Gardens in Burbank. Here’s some pics of the festivities from those who were lucky enough to attend: