Austin High School Alumni
Austin, Minnesota (MN)
Jack Robert Erwin Obituary (1952 - 2025)
Born Jun 28, 1952, Jack Robert Erwin attended Austin High School in Austin, MN. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Jack Robert Erwin.
| Graduation Year | Class of 1970 |
| Date of Birth | Jun 28, 1952 |
| Date of Passing | Sep 06, 2025 |
| About | Jack Robert Erwin, 73, affectionately known as “Chef Jack”, passed away on September 6, 2025, in Rochester, Minnesota. Born on June 28, 1952, in Austin, Minnesota, Jack dedicated his life to the community he cherished. His passion for food and connecting with others led to a long and varied career in the culinary world. He worked at several restaurants throughout the Austin area, including the Union 76 truck stop and the Sheriff’s Youth Programs at the boys ranch. Later, he served as Executive Chef at the Cedars of Austin, where his creativity and warmth left a lasting impression. Even after retiring from food service in 2019, Jack remained a familiar face at the Cedars, working part-time as a receptionist. Jack’s enthusiasm for cooking extended beyond professional kitchens. He was a popular figure at the Mower County Fair, where his lively cooking demonstrations drew enthusiastic crowds year after year. He also shared his culinary talents with local television audiences through appearances on KMSQ public TV. Known for his outgoing personality and zest for life, Jack was often seen riding around town on his Segway with one of his beloved dogs by his side. Animals were a constant source of joy for him – he had owned many horses in earlier years and shared his home with numerous dogs who brought him comfort and companionship. Jack is remembered with love by his sister, Suzanne Erwin of Austin; by his brothers, Robert Erwin (Teal) of Blaine, and David Erwin (Sally) of Albert Lea; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Doris Erwin, father Robert Erwin, and sister Sally Erwin Holmquist. A Celebration of Life will be held on October 4, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center Ruby Rupner Auditorium, 1304 21st Street NE, Austin. |
Lavonne Silbernick '68 said:
I just visited recently with Jack and told him my nephew bought his moms house. He made the best carmel corn. Excellent chef too!
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CommentCindy Fiedler '70 posted a photo:
Jack Erwin with his pup Rocky, picture shared from Judy Miller Tabor.
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