Roman Pass

Roman Frederick Pass, 1929-2017, compassionate, clever, hardworking, generous, car lover, truth teller, veteran, convertibles, margarita maker, fisherman, mentor, romantic, boat owner, teacher, Christian, honest, out spoken, social advocate, volunteer, conservationist, craftsman, food lover, empowering, worry wort, outdoorsman.  These words provide a glimpse into the makeup of the Bud Pass we knew and how he touched and inspired those fortunate enough to encounter him.

Roman “Bud” Pass was born to Alfred and Dorothy Pass in Dunnell, MN on July 19, 1928.  He was baptized on January 31, 1932.  With his loving wife Eloise and some immediate family present, Bud died the sunny Sunday morning of Aug. 20, 2017.

During the Great Depression years his parents moved him and his sister to California.  They moved back to Petersburg, MN in the 1940’s and Bud graduated from nearby Jackson High School in 1946.  Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was sent to Italy with the 351st Regiment, 88th Army Division’s Blue Devils.  After his tour in Italy he signed on with the Army Reserve.  When the Korean War broke out, Uncle Sam called him back to duty.  He served 11 months in Korea, earning 3 Bronze Stars.  Bud was always proud of his military service and that of his ancestors.  This included Henderson Hurlburt during the Civil War, and Bud’s namesake Roman Frederick Pass who was killed in action in WWI in France.

Bud and his grandson Michael Pass, also a veteran, participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, DC where they were recognized for their service to country.  Before going to Korea, Bud was fortunate to meet the new teacher in town, Eloise Nordlie.  Upon returning from the war, he felt lucky to marry her and they started their family life in Petersburg.  They took over his father’s business, The Petersburg Farm Store which included the Post Office for the area.  In 1968 Bud started a job with the Minnesota Department of Revenue.  When a transfer to Duluth became available in 1971, Bud and Eloise closed the store and moved the family to Esko, MN.  Bud and Eloise retired in 1991.  For 20 years they spent winters in Sun City, AZ.

Bud was known as a devoted husband, father, and loyal friend.His example shaped children's lives as spouses and parents.    Early on he taught his kids his love of the outdoors, often taking them hunting and fishing.  Family summer trips were common, going to places like the Black Hills, Glacier Park, and the World’s Fair in Seattle.  Bud had a knack for fixing things that others would have thrown away.  He had a talent for refinishing antique furniture which is still in use by family members today.Bud is preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Dorothy Pass and survived

by his wife of 65 years Eloise Pass, sister Marilyn Quamme, children Mark (Sue) Pass, Fredric (Angela) Pass, Carl (Elizabeth) Pass, and Kristi (Brant) Deppa, grandchildren Madeline, Daniel, Meagan, Jessica, and Michael Pass, Emma and Bjorn Deppa, great-grandchildren Kiana, Cayden and Arianna.

The family would like to thank the staff at Ecumen Lakeshore and St. Mary’s Hospice for the gentle and loving care given to Bud.

Visitation will be held on Saturday September 9, 2017 from 11AM until the 12 noon Memorial Service in Pilgrim Congregational Church.  2310 E. 4th St. Duluth, MN 55812.  Reverend David Carlson of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will officiate.  Memorials are preferred to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.  219 N. 6th St. Duluth, MN 55805.  Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home.  600 E. 2nd Street, Duluth, MN 55805.  218-727-3555.