Rodney James Passuello

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Rodney James Passuello, age 72, of Ironwood, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the Villa Maria Health and Rehabilitation Facility in Hurley, Wisconsin. A devoted family man, respected public servant and beloved friend, Rodney was born on March 24, 1953, in Ironwood, to Reno and Ethel Passuello.

Rodney graduated from Ironwood Catholic High School in 1971 and went on to build a life defined by service, craftsmanship and deep devotion to those he loved. He worked for Tri-State Homes, Trolla Construction and Beacon Ambulance before beginning his long and distinguished career with the City of Ironwood Public Safety Department in

1989. Rodney retired in 2011 with the honored rank of detective/sergeant.

Rodney married Mary Kohegyi on June 8, 1974, and together they had two children, Pete and Sarah. They later divorced, but remained dedicated parents to their children.

On Aug. 2, 1980, Rodney married the love of his life, Doreen Lynn Martinson. Together, they shared 36 years of marriage, raising their three sons, Clay, Marty and Lane, and creating a lifetime of memories filled with love, laughter and adventure.

While serving with Ironwood Public Safety, Rodney was a K9 officer and handler to his narcotics dog, Magnum. He was also a firefighter for the duration of his career, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his community in multiple capacities.

Rodney was a man of many passions. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and dog sled racing. He had a deep love for stock car racing, restoring classic cars and building model cars; interests he often shared with his children and friends. Some of his happiest moments were spent on Lake Superior aboard "The Finn-Lander," his son Lane's, fishing boat, surrounded by the beauty of the water and the joy of family.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Reno and Ethel Passuello; a brother, Roderick; a sister, Rena; brother-in-law, George; and his beloved wife, Doreen.

He is survived by his five children, Pete (Nicole), Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Clay and Marty (Alyssa), both of Ironwood, Lane (Ashley), Hurley, and Sarah, Peonia, Kentucky.

He also leaves behind his cherished granddaughter, Kate; along with extended family and many dear friends who will miss his warmth, humor and steadfast presence.

A celebration of life will be held in Rodney's honor at The Aurora Club in Ironwood, on Saturday, April 26, beginning at noon.

All are welcome to attend and share stories, memories and fellowship in remembrance of a life well-lived.

"Rodney's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved fiercely and the community he served with honor."

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.