Editorial: Celebrating Managing Editor Tom Torpy's retirement after 37 years at KCCI

Here at KCCI, we have a long legacy of legendary journalists who've graced our studio. Names like Paul Rhoades, Kevin and Mollie Cooney and Cynthia Fodor — to name just a few. Behind them is an army of producers, photojournalists, directors and more, gathering the news you see each day. And at the center of the team is the assignment desk. It's the beating heart of any news operation.This week, we said goodbye to the person who's been the beating heart of our news operation for decades — managing editor Tom Torpy. Tom started here at KCCI 37 years ago. He started "on the streets," as they say, as a photojournalist, shooting breaking news and feature stories around our state. Then he moved to the assignment desk. The person who listens to scanners, makes calls and coordinates all of our reporters and photographers. From the desk overlooking the newsroom, Tom helped KCCI cover tragedies and triumphs, snowstorms and tornadoes, horrific crimes and the fight to bring criminals to justice. His name is well known within police departments around our area and news departments around the country. You may have never seen Tom, but every story you’ve seen has Tom’s contributions all over it. As much as he loves his KCCI family, Tom loves his own family more. And that drove Tom’s choice to retire now. He simply wants to spend more time with his wife, Mary, their children and their grandchild. He loves taking them out on his boat. He wants more time for boating, picnics, walks, and hugs. Thank you for all you’ve meant to KCCI, Tom. We'll miss you. Good luck and bon voyage!