The Rev. Robert Rolfes

1950 - 2025

The Rev. Robert Rolfes died Aug.15, 2025, at Benedictine Living Community in Cold Spring.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Aug. 22 at St. Mary's Cathedral upper church, with the Most Rev. Patrick M. Neary, C.S.C., presiding. Burial was at Sacred Heart Parish Cemetery in Freeport.
Father Rolfes was born Dec. 1, 1950, in Freeport, Minnesota, and was the son of Amandus and Elizabeth (Silbernick) Rolfes. He attended Sacred Heart Grade School in Freeport, St. John's Preparatory School in Collegeville, St. John's University in Collegeville and the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. He prepared for the priesthood at St. John Vianney College Seminary in St. Paul and St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul. He earned a Licentiate in Canon Law from St. Paul University in Ottawa, Canada, (1983-1985).
Father Rolfes was ordained a transitional deacon May 30, 1976, and ordained to the priesthood May 28, 1977, both at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, by the Most Rev. George H. Speltz. His first Mass was May 29, 1977, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport.
Father Rolfes served in the following pastoral assignments: associate pastor, St. Mary's Cathedral, St. Cloud, 1977-1983; chaplain of the Poor Clares at St. Clare's Monastery, Sauk Rapids, 1985-1989; pastor, Mary of the Immaculate Conception, Rockville, 1989-2000; St. Mary Help of Christians, St. Augusta, 2000-2014; and St. Wendelin, Luxemburg, 2007-2008.
He held the offices of assistant chancellor, 1985-1997; judge and adjutant judicial vicar of the Tribunal, 1985-2023; vicar for development, 1993-1997; chancellor, 1997-2011; vicar for retired priests, 2005-2023; moderator of the Curia, 2008-2023; and vicar general, 2011-2023. Father Rolfes retired Feb. 2, 2023.
He also served on many diocesan committees and boards: the College of Consultors, Pastoral Council, Presbyteral Council, Finance Council, Building Commission, Centennial Committee, Review Board and Priests' Personnel Board. He served as executive director of the Opus Dei annual fundraising campaign, as temporary parochial administrator of many parishes and as master of ceremonies for major diocesan liturgies. He was a Faithful Friar and member of Father Pierz Assembly of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus.
Father Bob was one of the lucky people who knew his vocation from an early age. His goal was always to become a parish priest in the St. Cloud Diocese. In connecting with the parish people, he became a friend to all. He loved playing cards, especially solo and bridge. Father Bob was a lifelong Twins fan. He also enjoyed many vacations with Fathers Ralph, Tim and Geno and many other parish friends. His final pleasure was going to the family cabin where he would connect with his many nephews, nieces and cousins. Father Bob, you left an impression on everyone you met, and we will always remember you.
Father Rolfes is survived by his brother, Charles "Chuck", and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Melvin and Walter.
Memorials are preferred to the Poor Clare Monastery of Sauk Rapids.