What to Write in a Retirement Card: 25+ Heartfelt Examples
Retirement is a huge milestone—decades of work coming to an end and a new chapter beginning. The message you write should honor both the journey and what's ahead. Here are 25+ retirement card message examples, from heartfelt to funny to professional.
Simple Framework for Retirement Messages
A great retirement message typically includes:
- Congratulations on reaching this milestone
- Recognition of their impact and contributions
- Well wishes for what's ahead
- Personal touch (optional but makes it special)
Heartfelt & Professional
Perfect for coworkers you've worked closely with
"Congratulations on your retirement! Your [X] years here have made a lasting impact on this organization and everyone who's had the pleasure of working with you. While you'll be missed tremendously, we're so excited for this new chapter in your life. Enjoy every moment of your well-deserved retirement!"
"After all these years of dedication and hard work, retirement is truly well-earned. Thank you for everything you've taught us, the example you've set, and the positive culture you've helped create here. Wishing you endless relaxation, adventure, and happiness in your retirement!"
"It's hard to imagine this place without you, but we're thrilled for you to finally have the time to pursue everything you've been waiting to do. Your contributions here won't be forgotten, and your legacy will continue. Congratulations on a remarkable career and best wishes for an even better retirement!"
"Thank you for [specific contribution, e.g., 'mentoring so many of us,' 'leading our team through challenging times,' 'always being someone we could count on']. Your impact extends far beyond your job title. May your retirement be filled with all the joy, peace, and adventure you deserve!"
"Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone! You've built an impressive career and left your mark on this organization. As you step into retirement, I hope you find time for all the things you love and discover new passions along the way. You've earned every moment of rest and celebration ahead!"
For Your Boss or Manager
Acknowledging their leadership and impact
"Thank you for being an exceptional leader and mentor. Your guidance has shaped my career in ways I'll always be grateful for. While we'll miss your leadership, we're excited for you to enjoy the retirement you've more than earned. Wishing you all the best in this exciting new chapter!"
"Congratulations on your retirement! Working under your leadership has been one of the highlights of my career. You've created a lasting legacy here, and your influence will continue long after your last day. Thank you for everything, and enjoy every moment of your well-deserved retirement!"
"You've been more than a boss—you've been a mentor, advocate, and inspiration. Thank you for the countless ways you've supported and guided this team. May your retirement be filled with relaxation, adventure, and all the things you never had time for before. Congratulations!"
"Your leadership has set the standard for what great management looks like. Thank you for believing in me/us and creating an environment where we could grow and succeed. Wishing you a retirement as fulfilling as the career you built!"
Warm & Personal
For close colleagues who've become friends
"I'm going to miss our daily coffee chats and your endless wisdom more than you know. You've been such an important part of not just my workday, but my life. Thank you for your friendship, your mentorship, and all the laughs along the way. Enjoy every second of retirement—you've earned it, friend!"
"This place won't be the same without you! You've made coming to work genuinely enjoyable. I'm so grateful for your friendship and all the memories we've created here. Here's to new adventures, well-deserved rest, and staying in touch. Congratulations on your retirement!"
"Congrats on your escape! 😊 Seriously though, working with you has been one of the best parts of my time here. You've been a true friend and made every challenge more bearable. I can't wait to hear about all your retirement adventures. Don't be a stranger!"
Funny & Light-Hearted
For casual environments and colleagues with a sense of humor
"Congratulations on your retirement! Now you can finally do what you've always dreamed of: absolutely nothing. Enjoy the naps, the lack of alarm clocks, and never having to sit through another Monday meeting. You've earned every lazy day ahead!"
"Happy retirement! Remember: every day is Saturday now, every meal can be breakfast, and pants are optional. Living the dream! We'll miss you, but we're incredibly jealous. Enjoy!"
"You're retired! You did it! Now prepare for the most challenging job of all: figuring out what to do with all your free time. Pro tip: start with golf, naps, and ignoring emails forever. Congratulations!"
"Congrats on reaching the ultimate career goal: never setting an alarm again. May your retirement be filled with long mornings, longer naps, and zero conference calls. We'll miss you (but not as much as you'll enjoy sleeping in)!"
"After [X] years of hard work, you finally get to do what you've been practicing during Zoom meetings: pretend to be busy while actually doing whatever you want. Retirement looks good on you already! Congrats!"
Short & Sweet
Perfect for group cards or when you're not super close
"Congratulations on your retirement! Wishing you health, happiness, and adventure in this exciting new chapter."
"Happy retirement! Thank you for everything you've contributed here. Enjoy this well-deserved time!"
"Wishing you all the best in your retirement. You'll be missed!"
"Congratulations! May your retirement be everything you've dreamed of and more."
Make It More Meaningful: Add These Personal Touches
Mention a Specific Memory
"I'll never forget when you [specific moment]. That really showed me [what you learned]."
Acknowledge Their Specific Impact
Instead of "Thanks for everything," try: "Your [specific skill/quality] taught me [specific lesson]. I'll carry that with me throughout my career."
Reference Their Retirement Plans
If you know they're planning to travel, golf, spend time with grandkids, etc., mention it: "Can't wait to hear about your adventures in [destination]!" or "Those grandkids are lucky to get more time with you!"
Include a Promise to Stay Connected
"Let's not lose touch—I'd love to grab coffee once you're settled into retirement!" or "Can't wait to see photos of your travels!"
What NOT to Say in a Retirement Card
❌ "You're so old"
Even as a joke, don't make retirement about age. Focus on the achievement and what's ahead.
❌ "Good luck finding something to do"
Implies they'll be bored or useless. Instead: "Excited to see what adventures you pursue!"
❌ "We'll never replace you"
Can sound like guilt-tripping. Try: "Your contributions have set a high bar for all of us."
❌ Work complaints
"Lucky you get to escape this place!" focuses on negativity. Keep it positive and forward-looking.
Creating a Group Retirement Card?
Make their retirement celebration special with a free group retirement eCard that everyone can sign. Perfect for collecting messages from the whole team, former colleagues, and friends.