Saint Paul, MN- Renowned journalist and St. Paul Pioneer Press columnist Ruben Rosario passed away yesterday at the age of 70. Rosario, a powerful voice for the voiceless, spent over four decades chronicling the stories of everyday people and the challenges faced by those on the margins of society.
Representative María Isa Pérez-Vega, a pupil of Mr. Rosario, released the following statement:
“Ruben was a giant in the journalism industry. His compassion and empathy for those he profiled shone through in every word he wrote. He was a gift to journalism, to our Boricua community, and to the entire state of Minnesota. As a champion editor, he empowered generations to share the voices and stories of our community, ones that have shaped history. Thank you for your mentorship, support, and inspiration. You believed in the power of arts and democracy. I will miss you, Mr. Ruben Rosario. Pa'lante siempre.”
Born and raised in the Bronx, Rosario began his career at the New York Daily News, where he covered everything from crime and mob trials to the harsh realities of drug addiction. He brought his unique perspective and storytelling talents to the Pioneer Press in 1991. In 1997, he launched his award-winning column, which quickly became a must-read for Twin Cities residents.
Rosario's unwavering dedication to journalism was matched only by his courage in the face of personal adversity. A cancer survivor, he continued to write and inspire even after his diagnosis with multiple myeloma. In 2020, he published a collection of his favorite columns titled "Deadline Minnesota."
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