When Rob Kretzinger joined WesleyLife’s executive leadership team nearly 30 years ago, he carried with him a vision that would change the way we think about aging. Today, Rob publicly shared news that marks a new chapter for him and for WesleyLife: He will retire as president and CEO on June 1, 2026.
Until then, he’ll continue to lead with the same passion and purpose that have defined his tenure. Following his retirement, he will serve the organization as senior advisor.
“This decision comes after significant reflection and prayer about what WesleyLife needs going forward, as well as what I need in this season of my life,” Rob said. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited for the next chapter of innovation and impact.”
When Rob joined WesleyLife, the organization was a small network of five traditional retirement communities. Today, thanks to his visionary leadership, WesleyLife has grown into the Midwest’s largest nonprofit provider of health and well-being services for older adults, serving more than 12,000 people each year.
Rob often reminds team members that WesleyLife’s mission happens “out there” — in our communities for healthy living, in our clients’ homes, and in the lives of those we serve.
His humility is grounded in a lesson from his earliest days as a leader: A resident of Wesley Acres, now Wesley on Grand, would stop by his office years ago and walk with him to a side door of the Chamberlain Mansion, where the organization’s executive offices were located at the time.
She’d point to the door and say, “Remember: This was the servants’ entrance.”
Her message was clear: leadership is service. Rob has carried that truth ever since.
Under Rob’s Guidance
Rob’s leadership hasn't been just about growth; it's been about reimagining what aging could look like. During his tenure, WesleyLife:
- Expanded our reach from five campuses to a network serving more than 12,000 older adults annually through communities and services that meet people wherever they call home.
- Grew operating revenue from $19 million to more than $180 million, allowing us to continue to expand our mission.
- Expanded philanthropic reach, helping WesleyLife surpass $104 million in cumulative giving, including transformative gifts that expanded Meals on Wheels and funded new communities.
- Introduced innovative housing and wellness models that prioritize independence, joy, and connection, setting new standards for senior living.
- Championed a holistic approach to well-being, focusing on extending healthspan through initiatives that promote movement, purpose, healthy eating, and social connection — an approach that led to such achievements as Blue Zones Work Sites™ designations for all WesleyLife locations.
- Strengthened workplace culture, earning repeated recognition as a Best Place to Work® and Great Place to Work®. Rob often reminds us that the heart of WesleyLife beats in the hands of team members who serve every day.
- Positioned WesleyLife as a thought leader, advocating nationally for inclusive, purposeful aging and championing efforts to combat ageism.
Chad Rasmussen, chair of the WesleyLife board of directors, reflected on Rob’s impact:
“Rob’s vision and passion have transformed WesleyLife and inspired all of us. His leadership has positioned us for a future of growth and innovation, and we are deeply grateful for his extraordinary service.”
Rob’s story is woven into the fabric of WesleyLife — and into the lives of thousands of older adults who have found joy, connection, and purpose through our communities and services. In the months ahead, we’ll share opportunities to celebrate his leadership and legacy. For now, we invite you to join us in expressing gratitude for all Rob has done to make WesleyLife stronger, more resilient, and ready for the future.
Thank you, Rob, for nearly three decades of vision, passion, and unwavering commitment to our mission.
