Disney Imagineer Joe Rhode Sends Heartfelt Goodbye on His First Day of Retirement

When the term “Disney Legend” is used many think of Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde.

Rohde was the mastermind behind much of Disney’s Animal Kingdom including Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest. He was also one of the main designers behind Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, and many more attractions. He’s known for his wild imagination and signature, oversized earrings. The many is basically bursting with creativity in everything he does.

Joe Rohde announced he would retire as a Walt Disney Imagineer earlier. Many fans were saddened to hear that he wouldn’t be creating for Disney Parks in the future. He took to Instagram, toasted with family, and gave everyone some insight on how he plans on spending all his free time during retirement.

Well. This is it. I will be just Joe Rohde, creative guy, after today. I still plan to work some, but in new areas and new mediums, and I’d also like to just paint. I heard that the postponed Explorers Club expedition to Nunavut, way up north, is back on, so I can prepare for next August when that will happen.

Since November when I announced my retirement from Imagineering, I’ve received lots of very nice congratulations and testimonials from people for whom my work has made a difference. That is gratifying and I’m very thankful to all. People have also warned me about feeling bored by retirement… but I truly have so many deferred projects that I know I cannot complete them all in any rational amount of time I may have.

Books. Paintings. Sculptures. Plays. Chores. Expeditions, and time to spend with my wife Melody, whom I met when we were still in school and who has been with me through all of this huge adventure…and with my boys, now grown young men starting their own careers. As much as I have enjoyed my work, and the joy it has brought to so many…my family has always been my first and greatest love. Last night we all got together (only one lives off the Rohde campus right now) we raised our glasses and toasted. .. “Here’s to forty years.”

While we’re sad to see the Disney legend go, we can’t wait to see what he dreams up next. Joe, if you’re reading this, please keep us updated on Instagram! We want to see all your brilliant projects in the future.

Read more about Joe Rohde’s achievements here!

Are you a fan of Joe Rohde’s work? Give him a shoutout in the comments below!

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