Henry Zietlow
It is with great sorrow that we share the news of a precious life lost within our community.

This Monday, January 14th, Minnesota Boat Club member Henry Zietlow lost his life to a fatal car accident near Hayward, Wisconsin. His mother, Sarah Risser, also occupied the vehicle. Thankfully, she survived the head-on collision, being treated for a broken wrist among other non-life threatening injuries. He is also survived by his father Nathan Zietlow and sister Nina.

Henry was a member of the Minnesota Boat Club Junior Team while studying at Saint Paul Academy. He graduated in the spring of 2018 and proceeded to attend Bowdoin University in Maine. In the first semester of his freshman year, he competed with the varsity team; racing at the Head of the Charles this past October.

Under the direction of Coach Miriam Baer, Henry saw successes at local, regional, and national regattas. His presence significantly impacted those blessed to be around him. Coach Baer reminisces of Henry’s work ethic, his demeanor, and his leadership. Always focused on the task at hand, Henry was a work horse. He knew how to put himself on a line, in practice or on a race course. Beyond that, he knew how to reflect and use his experiences to push forward. Elected captain by his peers, Henry led by example. His peers will let you know that their experiences at Minnesota Boat Club were often defined by Henry, his involvement and friendship.

Off the water, Henry showed the diversity of his talents. Graduating with honors from SPA, Henry demonstrated the same discipline he had for rowing as a scholar. His senior year, he interned with the Mississippi Park Connection in addition to performing with the Minnesota Youth Symphonies Orchestra. Henry touched so many individuals and communities. One cannot fathom how many he was destined to impact.

The service will be held this Sunday, January 20th at 1 pm at the Macalester Plymouth United Church located at 1658 Lincoln Ave, St. Paul, MN 55105. The reception will follow at the Minnesota Boat Club.

The MBC community sends their thoughts, prayers, and love to Henry’s family, friends, and all those grieving.