After 95 years of a fulfilling life, Roderick “Rod” Mac Pherson passed away peacefully on Father’s Day, June 21, 2026. He was a caring father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and most importantly, a dedicated husband.
Rod was born on November 17, 1930, to Agnes and John in Croft, Antigonish County, Nova Scotia. As a young teenager, Rod left home to start working, which eventually brought him to the bush camps of Northwestern Ontario. His strong work ethic and quiet determination led him to have a lengthy career as a heavy equipment operator until he retired at the age of 65.
In the spring of 1954, while working at a camp in Hillsport, Ontario, Rod began dating Patricia. Their relationship quickly blossomed into a lifelong bond. They got married the following year on April 11, 1955, at St. Andrew’s Church in Port Arthur. Together they enjoyed an incredible 71 years of marriage and built a family filled with love.
Over the years that followed, Rod and Pat raised their five children. His job took them to various communities such as Thunder Bay, Dryden, Geraldton, Nipigon, and Bathurst in New Brunswick where they created many unforgettable memories before returning to Thunder Bay. Rod and Pat had an active social life and valued the numerous friendships they formed over time. They were proud members of the Maritimers Club in Thunder Bay which helped them stay connected to their East Coast heritage. Rod was known for his hard work but also liked to unwind with a cold beer after a long day or occasionally enjoyed a “rye and seven” during special moments.
Rod is fondly remembered by his wife Patricia (née Lapointe) and his children Brenda Levesque, Jerry (Connie Lee) Mac Pherson, Lorraine (Ken) Commisso, Jo-Ann (David) Zelinski and Colleen Levesque along with many extended family members from the East Coast.
He was also the beloved grandfather of Jenna (Matt Fratpietro), Justin, Neil (Amanda Tam), Benjamin (Chelseay Rudolph), Konrad (Rasha née Karim), Karla (Shane Pichette), Laura (Chris West), Anders (Rebecca Schuetz), Colin Madison (Hunter Galloway), and Olivia (Graeme Fingler).
The joy in Rod’s life increased with the arrival of great-grandchildren Nova Ray Ozzie Charlotte Mei and Roman with two more expected soon.
Rod was predeceased by his parents siblings Margaret Bowie (Wilfred) Teresa Heslop (Bob) Angus Mac Pherson and John Dan Mac Pherson along with his dear sons-in-law Phil Levesque and JP Levesque.
Rod will be remembered not just for being devoted to his wife and family but also for his strong work ethic warmth and humor. He had quick wit paired with perfect one-liners delivered effortlessly. Rod loved simple pleasures enjoying happiest moments when surrounded by his family holding onto that cup of Tim Hortons coffee.
Our family wishes to thank all staff members at Pioneer Ridge for their care friendship throughout these past few years.
A funeral Mass will take place on Friday July 31 2026 at 10:30 am at Corpus Christi Church where family friends will come together celebrating Rod’s life saying goodbye one last time. Online condolences can be shared at www. sargentandson. com.
