Leslie “Lucky” Holtorf was born on August 16, 1927 in Rochester, Minnesota. He graduated from Rochester Senior High in 1945. He held a variety of jobs in Rochester before being drafted into the Army in 1950. Lucky was best known as a Police officer at the Rochester Police Department for 28 years, and then as a driver for the Rochester City Lines for 13 years. He enjoyed many years of hunting, fishing, and pistol shooting. He played bass drum and marched in parades with the Elk’s Drum and Bugle Corps. For over 40 years, Lucky and his wife Dianne made outdoor Christmas ornaments and decorated their home on 5th Avenue for the city’s enjoyment. After leaving their home, he resided at the Homestead until he passed on August 30, 2021 at Methodist Hospital in Rochester.
Lucky was proceeded in death by his mother, Agnes; father, Elden; and brother, Eldie Jr. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dianne; his sister, Marilyn Stevens of Texas; three daughters, Joy (Anthony) Lopez, Karolee (Tony) Adler, and Lorae (Daniel) Stahley; 5 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and 8 grand puppies.
Rochester Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences of Lucky may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
The Rochester Police Department sends our sympathy to the family of retired Rochester Police Officer Leslie Holtorf.
Dianne & family, So saddened to hear of Lucky’s death. I considered him a good friend a mentor during my time in Rochester. Our most heartfelt sympathy to you family. Pat & Cheri Donnelly
When I was a young rookie on the RPD, I was encouraged by a number of older fellow officers, including my Captain, Ike Klomstad, Asst. Chief Lee Graham, and fellow patrol officer, Lucky Holtorf, to join the department Pistol Team. As it turned out, it was the start of a long and enjoyable involvement in competitive shooting that lasted throughout my career and for many years after retirement. But the first bump in the road came when we were starting the team competition to determine who would be in the top 8 members to represent Rochester at the annual MPPOA State Shoot. I told some of the guys that I might have skip it, since the house we had just recently purchased, badly needed painting and I had already started the job. The next day, Lucky showed up at our house, bright and early, paint brushes in hand, and said, ” Well, lets get at it !”. He not only slung paint with one brush, but to my amazement, had one in each hand. We got the job done in about a third of the time I had thought it would take. That was the start of a lifetime friendship with Lucky and allowed me the time to start a long and rewarding involvement in competitive pistol shooting. What a guy. Thanks Lucky, and God Speed…John Sibley
Lucky Holtorf was a good family friend and a treasured co-worker of my Dad, Lloyd Feind. Many sweet memories of this kind man. One of them being when he would be directing traffic at the drive thru bank I downtown Rochester. He always made time to stop and talk.
What a wonderful person.. He used to be on-site security for our evening bank teller shift at the NW Bank downtown walk-up / drive-through branch. Gosh.. 40 years ago? He was so kind, friendly & fun, and we felt safe in our little drive through teller huts. I also remember his huge Christmas light display at his house. Happy memories of him & the joy he spread.
Dear Dianne, We are saddened by the passing of uncle Lucky. Oddly enough Kathy and I passed by Rochester a couple months ago but were unable to reach you. We hope you and your extended family are otherwise healthy and safe. Please let us know your plans for any gathering. We would do our best to attend. May the love of Jesus Christ our Lotd be with you now and always.
September 11
Just received the notice of passing!! RIP Lucky… friend back when! Sounds like a very lovely life with Dianne! Sorry for your loss family! God bless you all!