Kerwin Engelhart Remembered for Rochester Athletics Legacy

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - A Rochester will man who dedicated much of his life to helping young people through student athletics passed away Thursday.

Kerwin Engelhart was 97 years old.

He Led Rochester School Athletics for Decades

His obituary, published by Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, says the Korean War veteran came to Rochester in 1960 to work as a teacher at John Marshall High School. Engelhart was named the school's athletic director in 1966, and his obituary says he was promoted to supervisor of athletics for both John Marshall and Mayo High Schools in 1977.

Retirement From Rochester Schools Came in 1987

After retiring from the Rochester School District in 1987, his obituary says Engelhart served as the Region One AA secretary for the Minnesota State High School League until he retired from that position in 2015 at age 85.

Community Service Extended Beyond School Athletics

He was a member of the Rochester Quarterbacks Club and is featured on the Rochester Park Board Wall of Honor. The obituary also notes his membership in the Minnesota State High School League and Minnesota Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Engelhart's extensive community involvement included serving on the Rochester Park Board for eight years. During that time, he was president of the board for six years.

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A memorial service for Engelhart will take place on October 26 at Christ United Methodist Church in southwest Rochester.