Locals mourns Dan Rood

NORWALK — Dan Rood — a longtime city of Norwalk employee, community volunteer and local history advocate whose presence was a constant throughout the community and at civic events — passed away on Dec. 18. He was 75. Many — including city officials, colleagues and community leaders — remembered Rood as someone who quietly but consistently gave his time, energy and attention to Norwalk. Norwalk police officers are among those mourning Rood, noting he served as a parking enforcement officer and park ranger. "Dan faithfully served the city of Norwalk with dedication and professionalism," Norwalk police Chief Scott Dahlgren said in a statement released following Rood's death. "His commitment to his duties and to the community was valued and respected by his colleagues." Rood worked part-time as a city parking enforcement officer and park ranger, roles that made him one of the most familiar figures in the city. "The Norwalk Police Department extends its sincere condolences to Dan Rood's family, friends and co-workers during this difficult time," Dahlgren said. "Rest in peace. Your service to the city of Norwalk will never be forgotten." Mayor Dave Light echoed those sentiments, emphasizing Rood's involvement across boards, committees and volunteer roles. "Dan was just an outstanding human being who was so passionate about everything he got involved with," Light said. "From the Paul Brown committee, historical society, crossing guard, park ranger and parking enforcement officer, Dan gave 100%. He will be missed. Our prayers are with his family." Rood's commitment to Norwalk extended beyond city employment. He served as past president and a longtime board member of the Firelands Historical Society where he was frequently quoted in the Reflector, reporting on issues ranging from museum stewardship to artifact preservation and local history. In one Reflector news story involving missing loaned artifacts, Rood underscored his belief in accountability and responsibility, stating, "At this point it is the principle of the thing." He was also a familiar voice in stories highlighting Norwalk's downtown events and historical displays, often sharing anecdotes about exhibits and the importance of connecting residents to the city's past. Rood was involved in Norwalk's bicentennial planning and contributed to numerous uptown and civic committees over the years, according to Light. Before his retirement, Rood worked for Ohio Edison. Outside of work and volunteer service, he was known as a bass player who loved music, a fixer who could tackle nearly any problem, and someone who enjoyed talking with just about anyone he met, according to his obituary. For many in and around the city, Rood's legacy is found not in a single accomplishment but in decades of steady involvement, the meetings attended, the tickets written, the artifacts protected and the quiet sense that someone was looking out for the community. Rood is survived by his wife, Sharon (Weisenberger) Rood; sons, Trevor Rood of Norwalk and Keaton Rood of Sandusky; daughter, Tricia Hoover of Norwalk; six grandchildren; sister, Maryanna Shaw of Norwalk; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel "Frank" and Mary Rood, and two brothers. A celebration of Rood's life is scheduled for 3-6 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 11 at Milestone Event Center, 11 S. Prospect St., Norwalk. Memorial contributions may be made to the Firelands Historical Society in his honor.