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Updated 8/26/2024
Lake Minnetonka, one of Minnesota’s premier lakes, is not only known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities but also for being home to a number of famous residents over the years. Here are some of the notable personalities who have lived on the shores of this iconic lake.
1. Prince
The legendary musician Prince, born and raised in Minneapolis, had a deep connection to the area. His famous song “Purple Rain” includes a reference to Lake Minnetonka, and his nearby Paisley Park estate in Chanhassen is now a museum dedicated to his life and career.
2. Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett, one of the greatest NBA players of all time, owned a home on Lake Minnetonka. Known for his time with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Boston Celtics, Garnett’s legacy in basketball is immense, marked by his MVP award and NBA championship.
3. James J. Hill
James J. Hill, the “Empire Builder” and founder of the Great Northern Railway, had a significant presence in the Lake Minnetonka area. His estate, North Oaks Farm, was a testament to his wealth and influence in the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
4. Sid Hartman
Sid Hartman, the beloved sports journalist, spent much of his life near Lake Minnetonka. His long career at the Minneapolis Star Tribune and his deep ties to Minnesota sports made him a local legend.
5. Marilyn Carlson Nelson
Marilyn Carlson Nelson, the former CEO of Carlson, a global hospitality and travel company, has a home on Lake Minnetonka. Her leadership and philanthropic efforts have left a lasting impact on both the business world and the local community.
6. Carl Pohlad
Carl Pohlad, the billionaire banker and owner of the Minnesota Twins, owned a grand estate on Lake Minnetonka. His influence in banking, real estate, and sports was significant, and his home was known for hosting numerous high-profile events.
7. Kevin Sorbo
Kevin Sorbo, best known for his role as Hercules in “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys,” hails from Mound, a city on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. Sorbo’s career in television and film has garnered him a dedicated fan base.
8. Jimmy Jam
James Samuel Harris III, known professionally as Jimmy Jam, is a renowned record producer and musician. He, along with his production partner Terry Lewis, created numerous hit songs for a variety of artists. Jimmy Jam had a home on Lake Minnetonka, adding to the lake’s musical legacy.
9. Paul Douglas
Paul Douglas, a well-known meteorologist and entrepreneur, designed and built a stunning home on Lake Minnetonka. His house, noted for its blend of modern and classic styles, has been featured prominently in design circles and media.
10. Lorie Line
Lorie Line, an accomplished pianist and composer, resides on Lake Minnetonka. Her music, which blends classical and contemporary styles, has made her a beloved figure in the instrumental music community.
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11. The Cargill Family
The Cargill family, founders of Cargill Inc., one of the world’s largest privately held companies, had a significant presence on Lake Minnetonka. Their estate, including the historic Cargill House on Carson’s Bay, is an architectural marvel that blends with the natural surroundings. The Cargill family’s long-standing influence in Minnesota and their choice of Lake Minnetonka for their residence reflect the area’s prestige and appeal to influential figures?.
12. The Dayton Family
The Dayton family, who founded what would become Target Corporation, owned one of the most recognizable estates on Lake Minnetonka. The Dayton/Burnet House is a stunning example of modernist architecture, designed by Italian architect Romaldo Giurgola. The property features expansive lakefront views and unique geometric designs, making it a landmark on the lake. The Dayton family’s choice to build their estate on Lake Minnetonka underscores the lake’s status as a desirable location for the wealthy and influential?.
13. Bob Dylan
Although primarily known for his connections to Hibbing and Duluth, Bob Dylan, the Nobel Prize-winning musician, also spent time on Lake Minnetonka. His ties to Minnesota are deep, and his presence around the lake adds to the area’s rich cultural heritage. Dylan’s occasional retreats to Lake Minnetonka were in keeping with his need for privacy and reflection, qualities that the lake’s serene environment readily provided?.
14. Lindsay Vonn
Olympic gold medalist and world-renowned skier Lindsay Vonn has roots in Minnesota, including connections to the Lake Minnetonka area. Although she spent much of her skiing career in Vail, Colorado, Vonn’s Minnesota upbringing, including time around Lake Minnetonka, contributed to her love for the outdoors and athletic pursuits. Vonn’s connection to the area highlights Lake Minnetonka’s appeal to athletes who appreciate both luxury and nature.
15. Josh Hartnett
Actor Josh Hartnett, known for his roles in “Pearl Harbor” and “Black Hawk Down,” has long been associated with the Twin Cities area, including Lake Minnetonka. Hartnett’s ties to Minnesota are strong, and his preference for the privacy and beauty of Lake Minnetonka made it an ideal place for him to retreat from the Hollywood spotlight. His connection to the area underscores its allure for celebrities seeking a peaceful yet luxurious lifestyle.
Conclusion
The allure of Lake Minnetonka extends beyond its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, attracting a diverse array of famous individuals from various fields. From musicians and athletes to business moguls and media personalities, the lake’s serene and luxurious environment continues to draw in those seeking both privacy and prestige. The legacies of these notable residents have contributed significantly to the rich cultural tapestry of Lake Minnetonka.
David Gooden | Lake Minnetonka Realtor
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