Over Thanksgiving week, Troutdale lost a cherished colleague, devoted public servant, and dear friend. Aaron “Mick” McNally passed away at the age of 50 after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.
For 17 years, Mick was a cornerstone of Troutdale’s Water and Streets Division. If you’ve ever dealt with a water service issue or seen a plow clearing snow from your street, there’s a good chance Mick was the one helping you. He was the reliable face of the Water Division, ready to assist residents and businesses alike, no matter the challenge or conditions. Over the years, his tireless dedication made him an integral part of daily life in our community, impacting countless lives through his work.
Mick’s passion for his job was matched only by his zest for life. An avid outdoorsman, he spent his free time surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, golfing (both disc and regular), and traveling the state in search of great food. Mick was a huge sports fan, and growing up in the Detroit area, he was a die-hard supporter of the Detroit Lions and Red Wings.
As a water system operator, Mick was known for his extraordinary thoroughness and meticulous attention to detail. His colleagues marveled at his encyclopedic knowledge of Troutdale’s 67 miles of water infrastructure. Every line, every valve—it seemed Mick had located and mapped them all. His commitment to mastering his craft remained steadfast even when battling the illness that would have sidelined many. Mick’s work ethic, paired with his unwavering dedication to serving others, made him a truly exceptional public servant.
Mick was also a generous mentor and valued coworker, always willing to share his vast expertise and lend a helping hand. He left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working with him, not just because of his skill and professionalism, but because of his kindness, humor, and approachable nature.
The Troutdale community and Public Works family mourn the loss of Mick McNally. We remember him not just for his unparalleled service to our city, but for the courage he displayed during his battle with cancer, his unshakable spirit, and most of all, his friendship. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of commitment and care lives on.
