The wrestling community lost a giant on March 29 when legendary University of Minnesota wrestling coach J Robinson passed away at the age of 79. Known for his intense discipline, profound life lessons, and unwavering commitment to his athletes, Robinson’s impact stretches far beyond the mat.
To honor his legacy, wrestling apparel brand Rudis, reached out to J’s wife, Sue Rubens, with a vision to create something meaningful. Together, Sue and the Rudis team designed three limited-edition tribute shirts that capture the essence of J’s values, teachings, and lifelong dedication to the sport.
A portion of every t-shirt sale will go directly to J’s Walk To End Alzheimer’s Fundraising effort.
Act Fast: The exclusive team store is only open until Wednesday, June 17!
Celebrating a Life Well-Lived: Service & Event Details
For those wishing to pay their respects and celebrate J’s incredible journey, a Visitation, Service, and Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, July 18, 2026. All events are open to the public, and the family welcomes anyone whose life was touched by Coach Robinson.
Schedule of Events | Saturday, July 18, 2026
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1:30 PM | Visitation | St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church (Plymouth, MN) |
| 3:00 PM | Service | St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church (Plymouth, MN) |
| 4:00 PM | Celebration of Life | Medina Entertainment Center (Plymouth, MN) |
| 6:00 PM | Special Program | Medina Entertainment Center (Plymouth, MN) |
“Tears, Laughter, and Beer”
If you are planning to attend, leave the somber black attire at home. J wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
“The hope and intent of the celebration is to truly celebrate J,” Sue Rubens shared. “The last thing he would want would be sadness. Tears and laughter (and beer!) can co-exist!”
In true J Robinson fashion, attendees are encouraged to wear gear that reflects his life and passions. Grab your new Rudis J Robinson tribute shirt, break out your U of M Gopher Wrestling gear, rock your vintage JROB Camps apparel, or lean into his fun-loving side with Jimmy Buffett-inspired “Parrot Head” clothes.
Let’s pack the room with the colors, memories, and energy of a man who changed the sport of wrestling forever.