Carl Pohlad, Longtime Wayzata Resident and Minnesota Twins Owner, Passes Away

Sources close to the Pohlad family have confirmed that Carl Pohlad, a prominent businessman and longtime resident of Wayzata, passed away today. Pohlad, who made his mark in the banking industry and became widely known as the owner of the Minnesota Twins, had spent his later years in Wayzata. More details on his passing will be shared as they become available.

Carl Pohlad’s life story is one of humble beginnings, perseverance, and influence. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1915, he grew up during the Great Depression, a time that shaped his future business acumen. He attended Valley High School in West Des Moines and briefly played football at Compton Junior College in Southern California, where he was recruited by legendary crooner Bing Crosby to play at Gonzaga University. However, Pohlad left college before completing his senior year to serve his country in World War II, where he earned both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star Medal for his service in Europe.

After the war, Pohlad returned to the Midwest, married Eloise O’Rourke, and began building his banking empire. His business ventures eventually led him to Minnesota, where he moved his family to Edina. By 1984, Pohlad had become the owner of the Minnesota Twins, a role in which he would leave a lasting legacy. Under his ownership, the Twins won two World Series titles, cementing his place in Minnesota sports history.

Beyond baseball, Pohlad was involved in various business enterprises, including the ownership of Marquette Bank, which he sold to U.S. Bancorp in 1992. His financial interests extended into real estate, broadcasting, and entertainment, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in the country.

In addition to his business ventures, Pohlad once owned a stake in the Minnesota Vikings and was a key figure in the state’s sports landscape. Despite a close call with selling the Twins in the late ’90s, Pohlad remained a steadfast part of Minnesota’s baseball scene until his passing.

Carl Pohlad is survived by his three sons, James, Robert, and William, who have continued the family’s legacy in both business and philanthropy. His wife, Eloise, passed away in 2003 after 56 years of marriage.

Pohlad’s contributions to Minnesota and his beloved Twins will be remembered as a significant part of the state’s history.