Ken Retallic

Eugene Kenneth “Ken” Retallic, Jr., 85, of Idaho Falls, passed away April 20, 2026, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center under the care of Aspen Hospice.

Ken was born March 24, 1941, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, to Eugene Kenneth Retallic and Mary Ralph. He was raised in Allegheny County, where he attended local schools and graduated from West Allegheny High School. He later attended Penn State before earning his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Dakota.

In the spring of 1966, Ken joined the United States Air Force and was stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota. It was there that he began his lifelong career in journalism as a reporter and editor for the base newspaper. He went on to work for the Grand Forks Herald for nearly a decade, honing his skills as both a reporter and editor.

On May 25, 1968, Ken married Lenora Beth “Laurie” Williamson in Grafton, North Dakota. Together they built a life centered on family, raising three daughters-Lara, Heidi, and Michelle-all born in Grand Forks.

In 1983, the family moved to Idaho Falls, where Ken spent 12 years at the Post Register in a variety of reporting and editorial roles. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping the newspaper into one of the most respected publications in the West. Known for his integrity, high standards, and dedication to readers, Ken also had a gift for recognizing and mentoring young journalists. Many of those reporters, far from home, found a second family at the Retallic household, gathering for holidays and celebrations. Today, many of them continue to live in and serve communities throughout the region. Ken played an integral role in shaping award winning journalism across the state. A legacy his family and friends are very proud of.

After leaving the Post Register, Ken freelanced before serving as editor of the Mountain Express in Ketchum, Idaho, for seven years.

In retirement, Ken devoted more time to the pursuits he loved: fly fishing, fly tying, bird watching, photography, and travel. He was a voracious reader and an avid follower of the news. His passion for the outdoors and storytelling came together in the books he authored and co-authored, including Fly Fisher’s Guide to Idaho (with Rocky Barker), Greater Yellowstone Fly Fisher’s Stream Guide, Wingshooter’s Guide to Idaho (also with Rocky Barker), and Fly Fisher’s Guide to Wyoming.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 58 years, Laurie Retallic of Idaho Falls, ID; daughters, Lara (Matt) Hill of Idaho Falls, ID, Heidi (Robert) GaNun of Iona, ID, and Michelle Retallic of Idaho Falls, ID; six grandchildren, Sloane (Bryna Haile) True, Mara, Dash, Greyleigh, and Willa Hill, Jacobi (Maddison Reese) Retallic; and one great-grandchild, Autumn Retallic.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Mary Retallic, and his brothers, Tom and Rich.

A private gathering for family and friends will be held at a later date.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff on the 4th and 5th floors of Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, as well as the caregivers at Promontory Point Rehabilitation. We are fortunate to live in a community filled with such dedicated medical professionals.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trout Unlimited or a favorite environmental nonprofit.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.