– Jim Crockarell, downtown St. Paul’s most prolific property owner
– Jim Crockarell, St. Paul’s renowned property investor.
Real Estate Mogul Jim Crockarell Passes Away at Age 79
Real estate mogul Jim Crockarell, who was known for his significant contributions to the development of St. Paul, Minnesota, has sadly passed away at the age of 79. He had been battling sepsis, according to his daughter Carol March.
A Legacy of Real Estate Expansion
Jim Crockarell made a name for himself in the real estate industry, particularly in St. Paul, where he became the largest downtown property owner. Through his company, Madison Equities, Crockarell acquired an impressive portfolio of 32 buildings, including iconic structures that shape the St. Paul skyline. Some notable properties include the First National Bank Building, U.S. Bank Center, and Alliance Bank Center. He also had holdings in popular strip malls and downtown restaurants such as Handsome Hog, Ox Cart Ale House, and Gray Duck Tavern.
His dedication to improving the city of St. Paul was evident in his work. Crockarell invested a considerable amount of time and energy into making downtown St. Paul a better place to live and work, as stated by his daughter Carol March.
A Tennessee Native’s Journey to St. Paul
Originally from Tennessee, Jim Crockarell moved to St. Paul in the 1970s to work as the vice president of planning at Ellerbe Becket Companies. His real estate ventures began in the 1980s, starting with rental homes and eventually expanding to include strip malls. In 1999, he made his first downtown building purchase, marking the beginning of his extensive property ownership in St. Paul.
Recognizing his significant impact on the city, B Kyle, president and CEO of the St. Paul Area Chamber, expressed how Crockarell’s passing would bring about a pivotal change in the downtown landscape. The chamber extended sincere condolences to his family and friends.
A Complex Figure in Downtown St. Paul
Crockarell’s involvement in the downtown ecosystem was not without controversy. He found himself in conflicts with the city, labor unions, and other property owners, including the nonprofit St. Paul Downtown Alliance. Notably, he chose not to join St. Paul’s downtown improvement district, which provides funds for graffiti removal, litter cleanup, and enhanced security. John Manillo, a prominent St. Paul developer, expressed disappointment in Crockarell’s lack of participation, believing that he could have made a more significant impact on the city.
In addition to these conflicts, Crockarell’s company, Madison Equities, faced a lawsuit filed by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. The lawsuit alleged wage theft and retaliation against a whistleblower. While the lawsuit is against Madison Equities and not its owner, Crockarell’s passing will not affect its outcome.
A Passion for Downtown St. Paul’s Residential Sector
Despite the challenges he faced, Jim Crockarell remained committed to the residential sector in downtown St. Paul. He spearheaded the conversion of old commercial buildings into charming apartments while preserving their historic appeal. Even during the pandemic, he continued to invest in St. Paul, purchasing the troubled Capital City Plaza parking ramp and planning to construct apartments on top.
Remembering a Loyal Friend and Employer
Jim Crockarell’s loyalty extended beyond his professional endeavors. His daughter, Carol March, described him as “incredibly loyal” to his friends and employees, many of whom had been with his company for over a decade. Joe Spencer, President of the St. Paul Downtown Alliance, expressed his condolences to Crockarell’s family and loved ones, acknowledging his longstanding presence in downtown St. Paul.
A Lasting Legacy
Jim Crockarell is survived by his wife, Rosemary Kortgard, his children Rob Crockarell and Carol March, and his four grandchildren. The family has scheduled a visitation on Tuesday at Holcomb-Henry-Boom-Purcell Funeral Home in North Oaks and a viewing on Thursday at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, followed by services.
Jim Crockarell leaves behind a lasting legacy in downtown St. Paul. His contributions to the city’s real estate landscape and his dedication to its improvement will not be forgotten.
Star Tribune staff writer Jim Walsh contributed to this report.
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– Jim Crockarell downtown St. Paul’s most prolific property owner
– Jim Crockarell dies at 79.
