Jonathan "Jonny" Michael Holtorf

With heavy hearts and far too soon, we announce the unexpected passing of Jonathan “Jonny” Michael Holtorf, age 43, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

Jon was born on November 1, 1981, to Michael “Mike” and Cynthia “Cindy” (Wiechmann) Holtorf, in Austin, Minnesota. He graduated from Austin High School in 2000 and later earned his associate degree from Riverland Community College in Austin.

A lifelong lover of baseball, Jon once lived every young ballplayer’s dream – being invited to try out for both the Chicago White Sox and the Pittsburgh Pirates in the spring of 1999. His passion for the game never faded, whether it was cheering for the Twins, swinging a bat in neighborhood wiffle ball battles, coaching and sharing his love of the game with the next generation, or giving back to the sport he loved by calling balls and strikes as an umpire. He may have taken plenty of heat for those close calls, but he loved every minute of it and wouldn’t have had it any other way.

A true craftsman, Jon poured his heart into working with his hands. He was proud of the work he produced and had a passion for creating. He might have had a “carpenter’s mouth,” but he also had a craftsman’s pride, turning raw material into something lasting.

He was a Minnesota sports fan through and through, cheering (and sometimes cursing) the Vikings, Twins, and Wild. He loved music, playing guitar, and pulling off a good prank. Known for his “shit-ass grin,” bright and infectious smile, and the most amazing hugs, he brought life to every party, a true social butterfly who never met a stranger.

Family meant everything to Jon. His kids were his pride and joy, and his love for them knew no limits.

He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and a man whose presence filled every room he walked into. His laughter, his pranks, his music, and his unwavering love will be missed beyond measure.

Jonathan leaves behind his beloved family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him.

He is survived by his children, Ryker, Oliver, Carter, and Molly, all of Austin, who were the center of his world, along with Brayden Green, who helped complete his family. He is also survived by Amanda Buxton, who gave him the greatest gift of all – his children.

In addition, he is survived by his parents, Mike and Cindy; his brother, Joseph (Erin); nephew, Hunter; and nieces, Jocilynn (JB), Kai, and Layla.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Janelle, whom he missed dearly and with whom he is now reunited. He is also reunited with his paternal grandparents, Don and Carolyn Holtorf, and maternal grandparents, Dennis and Kathleen Wiechmann. Jonathan will also be deeply missed by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless other relatives and friends who loved him dearly.

A celebration of Jonny’s life will be held from 12:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home Chapel in Austin. A short service and rosary will begin the celebration of life at 12:00 p.m. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.