Cottage Grove, MN — A heartbreaking wave of grief has swept through the Cottage Grove community following the death of Jenny Cavalier Rodriguez, a deeply loved fitness instructor at Sila Wellness and longtime gymnastics coach at Park High School. Jenny passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to those she served, taught, and loved.
Jenny was a vibrant soul whose energy lit up every room she entered — whether it was a gym, a classroom, or her own family home. Her passion for health and fitness was matched only by her passion for people. At Sila Wellness, she was more than just a coach; she was a motivator, a confidante, and a safe space for many. Her classes were known for their energy and laughter, but also for the quiet moments of strength she offered when someone needed encouragement the most.
A proud alumna of Park High School, Jenny returned to her roots as a gymnastics coach, shaping not just athletes but future leaders through her fierce yet compassionate approach. Her former students recall her as someone who believed in them even when they didn’t believe in themselves.
Jenny’s openness about her own struggles made her even more remarkable. She spoke candidly about mental health and personal challenges, offering strength in vulnerability and reminding others that it’s okay to not always be okay. Through this honesty, she became a beacon of hope for many.
Above all, Jenny was a devoted wife and loving mother of four. Her family was the heartbeat of her life, and her home radiated the same warmth and laughter she shared so freely with her broader community.
Her sudden passing has left a hole in the hearts of countless friends, students, colleagues, and loved ones — a loss made even heavier by the unforgettable presence she brought into every space she occupied. Those who knew her speak of a woman who was raw, real, funny, fiercely loyal, and endlessly giving.
Jenny Cavalier Rodriguez was truly one of a kind — a source of strength, joy, and inspiration. The Cottage Grove community will carry her spirit forward in every act of kindness, in every moment of shared laughter, and in every life she touched with her open heart.
She will be missed deeply and loved forever.
