With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Irving Alexander Cornwell on August 1, 2024. He was a man whose life was defined by service, dedication, and a spirit of adventure.
Irv Cornwell was on born on May 29, 1932, the youngest child of Irvin Edward Cornwell and Isabel Alexander Cornwell in St. Cloud, Minnesota, and grew up in Cold Spring. It was in this small town where Irv first developed his love for the great outdoors, a passion that followed him throughout his life.
Later, the family moved to Minneapolis, where he attended high school. Irv was an accomplished athlete, earning letters in football, tennis, and swimming. Irv was also honored with the distinction of being named All-City Center in football.
Irv continued his education at the University of Minnesota, where he was active in ROTC and earned a degree in Business in 1954. As a proud University of Minnesota alumnus, Irv held a deep appreciation for education and hard work. Upon graduation, he received his officer’s commission and served as a contracting officer at Edwards Air Force Base in California from 1955 to 1957.
Irv began his career at Stearns Roger in Denver before joining Kaman Sciences as Director of Contracts and an officer of the company. His expertise and leadership in negotiating agreements and franchises for Kaman products and services earned him the role of Vice President. Irv remained in this position, serving with dedication, until his retirement in 1995 after 30 years with the company.
Outside of his professional life, he was known for his love of the outdoors and his passion for tennis. A dedicated tennis player, Irv was always eager to engage in a match and share his passion for the sport. His love for nature was reflected in his homes across Minnesota, Colorado, and Arizona, where he embraced the unique beauty of each state. Whether sailing on Big Fish Lake in Minnesota, skiing in the Colorado mountains, or enjoying an early morning tennis match in Arizona’s sunshine, Irv remained deeply connected to nature. Many of Irv’s summers while growing up were spent at the family cottage on Big Fish Lake, and he later designed and built his own chalet-style cabin next-door which he enjoyed until selling it six years ago.
Alongside his love for nature, Irv had a strong passion for travel. He and his beloved wife, Flora, explored Luxembourg and traveled extensively throughout Europe. Irv’s deep interest in his Scottish ancestry led him to travel to Scotland, where he sought to connect with his roots and experience the land where his heritage began. Their travels were deeply rewarding and created countless memories which they hold dear.
He was a member of First Presbyterian Church and a firm believer in God.
Irv was a loving husband to Flora Cornwell, and together they shared a beautiful life. He leaves behind his beloved wife, their six children, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, his older sister Erra Carlson, and countless nieces and nephews, friends and colleagues. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and all who had the honor of knowing him. We will miss him dearly, but his spirit will continue to guide us, reminding us of the importance of family and living life to its fullest.
A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
