The Lake Minnetonka community is mourning the loss of Jerry Rockvam, former sitting Spring Park mayor and founder of Rockvam Boat Yards, Inc.
Rockvam died March 17 following a short battle with cancer.
Rockvam served several terms as mayor of Spring Park and counted the approval of Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge, a controversial project at the time, as one of his most enduring accomplishments. He is remembered as being very focused on building a solid city infrastructure and was looking forward to the Sunset Drive project. He was also known for being very fiscally responsible, whether it came to the city, his business, or in his role as president of the West Arm Townhome Association.
Rockvam and his wife Joyce founded their boating enterprise in 1961 when they were newly married. In the ensuing years, Rockvam dedicated himself fervently to expanding and innovating within their business.
“Water was in his veins,” said his daughter Roxanne Rockvam. “He wanted to ensure that everyone could access the lake and do it affordably. Whenever we would have groups come out, especially kids, he was always happy to see them enjoying the water.”
This sentiment was exemplified by the presence of a nautical-themed Christmas tree in the family home, which Rockvam enthusiastically decorated every year.
Each season, Rockvam hired numerous high school students from Mound Westonka, many of whom were entering the workforce for the first time, and he served as a mentor and role model for his crew.
“His work ethic was off the charts,” said Roxanne Rockvam. “Even last summer he was sweeping the warehouse within line of sight of his crew. He never asked them to do something that he wouldn’t do himself. I started working at the boatyard when I was seven, and as a kid, I was never allowed to call in sick unless I was actually sick!”
Rockvam took it upon himself to ensure that every aspect of the business, including the bathrooms, remained clean and well-maintained, believing it to be a crucial indicator of a successful operation.
“Just last year we installed a new floating dock even though the old one was fine,” said Roxanne Rockvam. “And when people started buying longer boats, he adjusted the racking system in the warehouse. These are just two examples of how he was always looking at trends and trying to accommodate customers’ needs.”
Rockvam also extended the use of his premises to serve the community’s needs. According to Mound Fire Chief Greg Pederson, he allowed the Mound Fire Department to do cold-water/ice rescue training at his marina out by the docks during the freezing temperatures in December for several years.
“One year, he asked if he could join us and don one of our cold-water ice rescue suits,” said Pederson. “We agreed to include him, and he jumped in the water with our firefighters. He truly loved the experience which gave him a new perspective, improved awareness of the dangers, and increased his respect for what our firefighters do on a regular basis.”
Along with that, Rockvam requested that the MFD Inspection and Safety team do regular inspections at his business.
“We did numerous site and facility inspections over the years,” said Pederson. “Rockvam always took swift action to correct any code or safety concerns. I mean…who or what business asks for inspections?” he joked.
Additionally, Rockvam was a proud alum of Orono High School and a staunch supporter of the district.
“My dad was really proud to be part of the team that won the 1956 Minnesota Valley Conference football championship,” said Roxanne Rockvam. “When the Orono boys basketball team won the state championship, he wanted to recognize those guys because someone had done the same for his football team, so he organized a party for them at Lord Fletchers.”
A celebration of life for Rockvam is planned for April 20, noon to 4 p.m., at Lord Fletcher’s, which those who knew him affectionately are calling the “Get Back to Work ‘’ party.
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