Frederick Otto Rohlff

Frederick Otto Rohlff, 82, passed away in Douglas, WY on February 4, 2026. Fred was born on January 17, 1944 in Cheyenne, WY the son of Emil Frederick Rohlff and Bernice Bertha (Nevins) Rohlff of Douglas. He grew up in Douglas and graduated from Douglas High School in 1962.

He was a long time member of the Army National Guard, serving from 1967-1987. He spent many weekends and summer weeks in Guernsey, and traveled to Korea for training once. He spoke often and fondly about this adventure. For most of his life, he was a familiar, friendly, and helpful presence at Bloedorn Lumber and its several predecessors.

On September 13, 1967, he married Ann M. Niezwaag, and they were inseparable for the next 58 years. The marriage produced one daughter, Lindsey M. Retherford, of Douglas, WY, to whom he was a loving, devoted, and cherished father.

Fred was known for the mischievous twinkle in his eye and his dry sense of humor, which he maintained until his passing. He loved caring for his family and his home as well as sharing his extensive knowledge of all things hardware and woodworking with the customers at the lumber yard. He would spend hours working outside to make his lawn and home look pristine. When that had been completed to his exacting standards, or when winter’s chill relieved him of the obligation, one could find him in his garage toiling meticulously on woodworking projects, making keepsakes for family and friends. He loved reading and learning about history, and accumulated an extensive collection of books, many first editions. He frequently took young Lindsey to Fort Fetterman and delighted in sharing his love of history with his beloved daughter. In later years, his two grandchildren, Ciara and Taylor Yates, were his main delight. He loved teasing and playing with them and never missed a home sporting event. In the last few years one could reliably find him “gaining some knowledge” at the College Inn Bar with family and friends. He was always ready to head down for a ice cold Pepsi and a ham and cheese sandwich, or a “cheese and ham” as he would call it, and some good company and conversation. Despite his short- term memory loss, he could regale his audience with tales of the history of Douglas and the intrigues of that particular historical building. His cheerful presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Fred is survived by his wife Ann, daughter Lindsey (Brian) Retherford, granddaughter Ciara Yates, grandson Taylor Yates, and former son-in-law William Yates, all of Douglas, WY as well as cousins and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Emil, on August 12, 1984 and mother Bernice, on May 10, 2004.

At his humble request, no services will be held.

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