So today there is only room for one major story. I’d like to take the day to highlight Todd Sorenson as he is retiring after 32 years of service with Staples Oil. There will be a Retirement Celebration at the Windom Country Club from 5pm-8pm on Wednesday July 9th.
Todd can only be described as a Legacy of Loyalty, Laughter and Leadership.
On April 13, 1993, Todd Sorensen began what would become a 32-year journey with Staples Oil Co., Inc., and now, he’s officially stepping into retirement and from what I can gather, his golf clubs are going to become his tool of choice. Sorenson said, “It feels good and I’m excited for retirement, but I’m also very grateful for being able to work for one company for so long.” Todd’s official title may have been Windom Sales and Operations Manager, but to his coworkers, customers, and the community, he was much more, a trusted colleague, a mentor, a prankster, and a friend. Whether it was early mornings in the shop or late-night calls from customers, Todd’s commitment never wavered.
When Sorenson joined the company, the team was small, just a handful of people working under Founder, Alan Staples. Back then, smartphones didn’t exist and technology hadn’t yet transformed the oil and fuel industry. “Now there are hundreds of employees, and everything is done with tech,” Staples noted. But while tools changed, Todd’s approach never did: relationships came first.
“I was able to have good conversations and great relationships with my customers,” Sorenson said. “Many became good friends. We laughed and cried together through life’s ups and downs.”
That ability to connect left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike.
“Todd has been nothing short of a foundational member,” said Brent Staples, President of Staples Oil Co., Inc. “He’s embodied the heart and soul of our company, blending professionalism with authenticity, and building trust in every relationship he touched.”
Alan Staples, who hired Todd back in 1993, echoed that sentiment: “Todd always did what was right, not just for the company, but for the customer. His integrity and honesty were unparalleled. He set the tone for how to treat people, whether it be a customer or fellow employee.”
While Todd’s work ethic was unmatched, he also brought plenty of humor to the workplace. Coworkers recall fondly the pranks, jokes, and laughter that made tough days more bearable.
One story in particular stands out from a stressful fall harvest season: rubber snakes in desk drawers, RC cars zipping around the shop, cards in bicycle spokes, and even a mysterious appearance by a set of bull horns. Without elaborating anymore one colleague said, “You’ll have to catch Todd on the tee box at the Windom Country Club for the full story, but those moments lifted our spirits and reminded us why people loved working with him.” And who could forget the time Sorenson showed up in a Batman costume on Halloween while filling a bulk truck near Hy-Vee? But as Todd put it, “The kids loved it!”
Never one to demand the spotlight, Todd quietly shaped the culture of Staples Oil through his example. He led from the front, often being the first one in the building and the last to leave. “He never asked another employee to do something he wouldn’t do himself,” said Alan Staples. “He was a rock I could lean on.”
His mentorship of new team members helped shape the next generation at the company. As he steps away, he passes the “old guy torch” to longtime friend and colleague Jay B Kipfer, who joined in 1996.
As he enters retirement, Todd has his priorities lined up: GOLF, GOLF, GOLF! and spending time with his 8 grandkids. It’s a well-earned reward for decades of dedication and a lifetime of service.
On behalf of the entire Staples Oil family, Brent Staples offered a heartfelt farewell: “We want to thank both Todd and his wife Karla for being an irreplaceable part of our journey. What Todd has meant to us cannot be overstated, he is part of our legacy and has left a mark on this company that will carry forward.” Todd Sorenson’s story isn’t just one of longevity, it’s a story of loyalty, humility, and heart. His presence may no longer be felt daily at Staples Oil, but his impact will be seen for years to come, in the culture he helped shape, in the friendships he forged, and on the golf course, where he’s sure to be found perfecting his swing.
Alan Staples summed it up best: “Here’s hoping that he and his wonderful wife Karla will enjoy many years together, enjoying their grandchildren and working on Todd’s handicap on the golf course!”
Please join the entire Staples team as they have an open house for Todd Sorensen’s Retirement Celebration tomorrow Wednesday, July 9th at the Windom Country Club from 5pm-8pm.