Layne Robert (Bob) Retzlaff, a respected journalist and avid traveler, passed away on September 30, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Born in 1931 in Faribault, Minnesota, Retzlaff enjoyed a rich life marked by his passion for sports, journalism, and exploration.
A Lifelong Commitment to Journalism
Bob Retzlaff graduated from Faribault High School in 1949, where he was a multi-sport athlete excelling in baseball, basketball, and golf. During his high school years, he developed a keen interest in photography and journalism, contributing stories to the school newspaper. His commitment to service began early when he enlisted in the US Army Reserves in January 1951, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant with the 328th Ordnance Company. His unit was activated during the Berlin Crisis and was stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana, before returning to Faribault, where he was honorably discharged in February 1963.
Retzlaff’s journalism career spanned over seven decades, primarily at two notable newspapers. He began at the Faribault Daily News, where he worked from 1949 until 1959. There, he initially served as a reporter and photographer before becoming the sports editor. In 1959, he joined the Rochester Post Bulletin, where he advanced to various leadership roles, including general reporter, news editor, and managing editor. He later transitioned to travel editor, sharing his adventures with readers until his retirement in 2019.
A Life of Travel and Community Engagement
Throughout his career, Retzlaff traveled extensively, often leading group cruises that allowed him to visit every continent. He walked along the Arctic Circle in the spring and threw a snowball in Antarctica that fall. His travels took him to numerous ancient and modern wonders, and he documented these experiences thoughtfully in his articles for the Post Bulletin, enticing readers to join him on future adventures.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Retzlaff was deeply committed to his community. A devoted member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Rochester, he was actively involved in various civic organizations. His contributions significantly impacted the growth of Rochester, a city that became a center for technology, medicine, and commerce in the Midwest.
Bob’s personal life was equally rich. He married Sandra Lorge, a fellow journalist at the Faribault Daily News, on September 26, 1959. They enjoyed a loving marriage for 40 years until her passing in May 2000. Together, they raised two children and welcomed four grandchildren into their family.
Retzlaff’s later years were spent receiving compassionate care from his healthcare providers at Mayo Clinic, as well as the staff at Prelude Homes in Woodbury and Cottagewood Senior Community in Rochester. The comfort and support he received allowed him to enjoy his final years surrounded by loved ones.
He leaves behind a legacy of storytelling and a profound influence on those who knew him. His words will continue to resonate through the articles he wrote, capturing the essence of the people, places, and cultures he encountered. A celebration of Bob Retzlaff’s life will take place at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes on October 15, 2025, from 16:00 to 18:00.