Mark Phillips, former commissioner of Iron Range Resources, has passed away

Folks at Iron Range Resources are grieving the loss of former Commissioner Mark Phillips.

The agency said in a statement that he died yesterday.

Phillips had retired in January, after serving as commissioner of the agency under both Governor Mark Dayton and Governor Tim Walz.

His career included more than 35 years of leadership in business, community, and workforce development.

A statement from Commissioner Ida Rukavina:

“We are saddened by the passing of our dear friend and former Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Commissioner Mark Phillips. Throughout his economic development career, Mark worked to improve the quality of life – for both residents and visitors – in northeastern Minnesota. His legacy will live on through his leadership in child care, broadband access, downtown revitalization, education and outdoor recreation. He will be greatly missed. We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Patty, his children, Jessica and Joe, and his grandchildren.”