Iron Range Today Staff Report

Former Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Commissioner Mark Phillips died Wednesday, leaving a legacy as a tireless advocate for the Iron Range region during his tenure.

Memorial information has not been released.

Phillips was appointed as head of the IRRRB by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2015 after a career in economic development with stops at Minnesota Power, Kraus-Anderson and other roles in the state of Minnesota, including a stint as commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development under Dayton in 2011.

Phillips agreed to stay on through Gov. Tim Walz’s first term and retired in January 2023, when he was succeeded by current Commissioner Ida Rukavina.

Phillips helped transform the agency toward focusing on community economic development that most recently included child care, broadband, education improvements and attracting new business development throughout northeastern Minnesota.

“He had an incredible passion for the Iron Range and was dedicated to ensuring businesses and families in our region could succeed,” wrote State Rep. Dave Lislegard, in a statement, who joined the IRRR Board after he was elected in 2018. “He led the way on countless efforts to strengthen education, create jobs, help businesses grow, create new recreation and tourism opportunities, and so much more work encompassing the tremendous legacy he leaves behind.”

Phillips was also known for his congenial personality, sense of humor and knack for storytelling. He was also considered a mentor for younger leaders in the region.

“Mark was first my boss, and then quickly became a mentor and friend,” wrote Kristen Vake, executive director of Iron Mining Association of Minnesota, on social media. “His smile could light up a room, and his zest for life and the work he did was unmatched.”

The IRRR, in a Facebook post announcing Phillips’ death, reflected on his parting words when he retired earlier this year.

“When he retired, Mark shared these thoughts, ‘I wanted to take this opportunity to reflect back with gratitude on a wonderful eight years as commissioner. It has been my privilege and honor to serve northeastern Minnesota as a representative of both the Dayton and Walz administrations.””When he retired, Mark shared these thoughts, “I wanted to take this opportunity to reflect back with gratitude on a wonderful eight years as commissioner. It has been my privilege and honor to serve northeastern Minnesota as a representative of both the Dayton and Walz administrations.'”

“Mark, the privilege and honor were all ours.”