We learned back in November that legendary Walt Disney Company Imagineer Joe Rohde would be retiring today, January 4th, 2021.
©Disney
His 40 year-long career with Disney has included such amazing projects as World Showcase pavilions, Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: Breakout!, Captain EO, and most notably, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. His time with the Imagineering department has produced some incredible work, and today he and his coworkers had a few things to say about his retirement.
Earlier today, Rohde himself reminded fans of today’s special occasion with a post on his Instagram account (@joerohde). He noted his future plans in the post, including travel, artwork, and spending time with his wife, Melody.
Disney Imagineer Zach Riddley gave a tribute to Rohde’s work via his own Instagram account (@thezachriddley). In his post, Riddley shared a photo of Joe Rohde’s work boots. The boots were worn by Rohde throughout various projects, and the names of his completed projects are written on the side.
According to Riddley, Joe Rohde has donated these boots to the Walt Disney Archives. There they will be saved for viewing by guests, fans, historians, and future Imagineers who dream to follow in Rohde’s footsteps.
©Joe Rohde
Rohde has contributed many brilliant ideas to the Walt Disney Company over the years, and we’re grateful for the time he dedicated to the Disney parks. We’ll be on the lookout for any more tributes to him in the near future, especially as his legacy is remembered among those who worked with him.
Read Here About Joe Rohde’s Greatest Projects!
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Which of Joe Rohde’s projects is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
TRENDING NOW
These 90's Disney tees are SO nostalgic!
Want to know how to book the cheapest flight possible for your next trip? We've...
Disney has FINALLY just released the menus for the 2026 EPCOT International Food and Wine...
The Hurly-Burly is looking great at Disney's BoardWalk!
Allegiant just added nine new nonstop flights.
We are diving into all the details on the new dark ride coming to Villains...
Major construction is happening at Animal Kingdom Lodge is happening through the fall.
"Anyone can cook" in this adorable Ratatouille inspired chef-jacket we spotted in Epcot! Check out...
Our team could simply not keep cool during the Imagineering Showcase at D23, and I'm...
There were some crowds at Disney World this weekend -- check out all the photos...
Do you know what time it is? It's time to show you some awesome Disney...
These 4 things are what Disney World lines REALLY need.
See the major changes you can expect at Disney World in January 2023!
Here are five things I've stopped buying in the parks, along with what I bring...
Target has some of the best Disney souvenirs!
Disney's Tokyo Resort is celebrating a big anniversary. Come see how one airline is taking...
This Fan-Favorite Disney Cookie Jar is Now Online!!
The boat dock at Yacht and Beach Club is still closed!
We're sharing all the best gluten-free options for dining in Animal Kingdom. Get our list...
Two Monorail lines are currently down in Disney World.