I.J. Holton served the Austin community in business, philanthropy, education, and literary programs for nearly 65 years. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he served as an infantry officer in the European theatre during the Second World War and was awarded the Bronze Star and the Croix de Guerre. After earning a law degree at the University of Iowa, he worked at Hormel Foods Corporation from 1947 to 1983, serving as attorney, head of the law department, director, vice president, president, chairman of the board and the Hormel Foundation. I.J. Holton Middle School is named in his honor, in recognition of his contributions to Austin's education programs and social growth.