Robert Lorei Obituary

Lorei, Robert

70, passed away peacefully at home on August 17, 2025. Rob was born in Erie, PA, to Barbara and Paul Lorei. He was the eldest of ten siblings, a role he cherished throughout his life. In June of 1978, Rob moved to Tampa, FL, to join a small team of dreamers dedicated to starting a new community radio station in West Central Florida. His efforts helped launch WMNF 88.5 FM, which quickly became one of the most successful non-commercial radio stations in the Southeast.

Rob served as the News and Public Affairs Director at WMNF for many decades, a tenure marked by his unwavering commitment to open dialogue and respectful debate-offering a space where diverse political perspectives could come together. His passion for journalism extended beyond radio; he was also the host of Florida This Week, a weekly television program on WEDU. Over more than forty years in local TV and radio journalism, Rob interviewed former presidents, vice presidents, U.S. Senators, governors, authors, spies, comedians, professors, musicians, activists, artists, and everyday people often overlooked by mainstream media.

His work earned him multiple accolades, including three Suncoast Emmy nominations and numerous awards from the ACLU for his compelling broadcast programs.

Playing golf was a lifelong passion for Rob, and he rarely passed up the opportunity to play a round. In addition to golf, Rob took great pride in getting in taking 10,000 steps each day.

Rob is survived by his two beloved daughters, Claire Lorei and Maria Rich, and her husband Jordan, along with their two sons, Rory and Nico. He is also survived by his longtime partner, Jenifer Elliott, his former wife, Janine Farver, his mother, Barbara Lorei, seven brothers, Greg, Gary, Michael, Kevin, Brian, Matthew, and Mark, and his sisters, Cindy and Sandy, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and nieces who loved him dearly.

Rob's legacy of integrity, curiosity, and compassion will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.

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Published by Tampa Bay Times on Aug. 26, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Lorei

7 Entries

Karen Marx

October 12, 2025

I did not know Rob personally but I listened to him on WMNF and was a faithful viewer of Florida This Week on WEDU. His show was part of my Friday night lineup and my DVR was always set to record even if I was able to watch the show as it aired. Rob was a consummate professional and we were fortunate to have someone of his caliber on our airwaves. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Rob´s passing is a great loss to the Tampa Bay Area.

Steve Bousquet

September 8, 2025

Rob was a colleague and a great friend and I will miss him terribly. No one cared more deeply about Tampa Bay. I enjoyed being with him many times on Florida This Week, and our get-togethers after taping the show at Four Green Fields. He was a dedicated journalist and a gentle soul who nonetheless believed in holding the powerful accountable. Florida was a better place because of his presence.

Victor Rudy DiMaio

August 31, 2025

Rob was a pioneer and trailblazer in our hometown starting in radio at WMNF and later in television at WEDU. I was fortunate not only to be a frequent guest and contributor but our post show times at the local pub which we really got to talk and know each other was the best! My condolences to the Lorei family and extended family and friends cause Rob will be sorely missed!

Cornelius aCarr

August 29, 2025

Best TV moderator And that includes all the national stations

Kevin Beasley

August 26, 2025

I listened to Rob for many years on WMNF. You could hear the compassion in his voice about the many issues of our time. I agree that Rob was the voice of WMNF. So sorry to his many friends and family. Another void in all our lives who were touched by such a caring man and a committed, exemplary journalist.

David Cory

August 26, 2025

Rob, you set such a great example as a journalist. You will be long remembered and missed. To me, you were the voice of WMNF. Without you, the station just isn't the same. I had the privilege of being a guest on your Radioactivity show on seven occasions. Each was an enjoyable experience thanks to your kindness and professionalism. The world of journalism needs more like you. Rest in peace and may God comfort your family and friends.

Mark Hafen

August 25, 2025

Rob was a friend and mentor to me when I volunteered at WMNF as a music programmer. He was a true professional in journalism, and a genuinely nice guy. Such a loss for Tampa Bay. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

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