Rodney George Rubus

Rodney George Rubus, 72 of Gaylord, took his last flight to his heavenly home on Monday, May 11, 2026, after an 18 month courageous battle with brain cancer.

Born in Dearborn, MI to George and Margaret Rubus, he was the youngest of three sons. After graduating from University of Michigan, he entered the United State Marine Corp where he proudly served his country. Later, he went on to fly with the Michigan National Guard in Grayling, flying the old Hueys.

He flew for channel 2 news in Detroit, organ procurement, other flying jobs until he found his calling as a Medevac pilot for St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor, where he met his wife, a nurse in the emergency room. Safety was his #1 mission, praying in the chapel before every shift that God would guide him to bring his flight crew home safely to their families.

A few years ago he read and shared with others what RFK Jr. said: The trick to life is to NOT have expectations but just to know what your duty is and to do it. You become relentless. Nobody can defeat you. This Rod did well. He was a kind and generous man with a heart so big, it engulfed you.

After he quit flying he received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing, worked hospice at the Veterans Affairs and then oncology, always ready to serve others.

He was an avid fly fisherman teaching his wife all he knew so she could enjoy the beautiful rivers with him. He found such peace in the rivers of Michigan, Utah and Arizona, always giving thanks to God for a beautiful day on the river.

Rod is survived by his wife, Carol Ann; his sister-in-law, Tammy Rubus; his nephew, Joseph (Nancy) Rubus; his nephew and Godson, Michael Rubus; his great nephews; great-great nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son and daughter, Richard and Deanna; his older twin brothers, Joseph and Andrew; and his niece, Beth Ann Rubus.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place 1:00 PM Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Gaylord St. Mary Cathedral, 606 North Ohio Avenue, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 12:00 PM.

Burial will take place at Holy Sepluchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan at a later date.

Carol would like to thank Aspen Ridge and Hospice of Michigan for the compassion and excellent care given to Rod.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.