Business & Tech
JR's Pizza Changing Owners, John and Carmen Retiring
It's been a long run for John and Carmen Robeck but after nearly 45 years in the food industry the couple is ready to retire.
John and Carmen Robeck are retiring. After nearly 45 years in the food industry business between catering and cake decorating and pizza and pub ownership, the two are long overdue some time to relax.
"We're getting tired," John said earlier this week. "We're late to retire and I look forward to sitting around saying 'what should we do?'"
The two bought what is currently back in 1990. John created the pizza recipes and Carmen always loved cooking.
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They started it as a pizza delivery only and by 1995 they had added a dining room. In 2003, the couple expanded even more by getting a liquor license and adding more food to the menu making it no longer just a pizza joint but a full bar and restaurant.
But the Robecks were no strangers to food and dining even then. Carmen had started catering in 1970 and in 1976 she opened her own business, Carmens Catering.
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One notable event during that run was catering a Democratic fundraiser at Vice President Hubert Humphrey's home on Lake Waverly.
Carmen continued catering through JR's and they've worked with the Lions and with many other local booster and community events. The two have employed many local students over the years including their four children and five of their 11 grandchildren.
"Many St. Michael-Albertville kids had their first cooking experience here," Carmen said.
Business wasn't always easy for the two. The reconstruction of 241 was a challenge but they persevered. "Working with Shop St. Michael was very satisfying," she added.
John and Carmen recently sold the business to Jeff Murray and on Sunday morning the restaurant will open up as Distractions instead of JR's.
"We're going to miss the people," John said and Carmen quickly agreed. "We've met so many fun people and employees, as well as customers."
The couple just celebrated their golden anniversary and are excited to spend time visiting the children they successfully raised while running their beloved business.
They plan on visiting and helping the new owner transition but are looking forward to leaving the long hours behind.
"That's the part we won't miss," John said laughing.