Florida man killed after fall in Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park
Apr 4, 2024, 3:50 PM
Bryce Canyon National Park in March, 2024. (Gina Wade)
(Gina Wade)
The husband of Florida’s Senate president died after falling while the couple was hiking in Utah, according to a memo sent to senators Wednesday. He fell on a hike in Bryce Canyon National Park.
“The President and First Gentleman were law school sweethearts,” Sen. Dennis Baxley said in a memo to senators. “The trip to visit several national parks in Utah was one of many great adventures they shared during five decades together. Their last few days together were marked by many special moments, beautiful scenery, and wonderful reflections on their lifetime.”
John Passidomo, 72, was a lawyer and former city councilor and vice mayor of Naples. He and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, a Republican, were visiting national parks on vacation less than a month after the Florida Legislature wrapped up its annual 60-day session.
The outpouring of love, support, and kind words about John is so comforting. Thank you. The girls and I are taking time to grieve as a family. Sharing our last photo from a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. He was more handsome then the day we met nearly 50 years ago.❤️ pic.twitter.com/VkyXqUvdoc
— Kathleen Passidomo (@Kathleen4SWFL) April 4, 2024
The two, who were about to celebrate their 45th anniversary, were hiking in Bryce Canyon National Park when John Passidomo fell Monday and suffered head and other injuries. The next day, the family was told he wouldn’t survive, and the couple’s children flew to his bedside, Baxley said.
It is with the deepest sadness and respect that we share the news about the tragic and untimely passing of John Passidomo, the beloved husband of Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo.
The First Gentleman passed away at 1:21 p.m. Mountain Time, 3:21 p.m. Eastern, per… pic.twitter.com/GP2BaZGSRl
— Peter Schorsch (@PeterSchorschFL) April 3, 2024
“The President has lost the love of her life, and is absolutely devastated by this sudden and unexpected accident,” Baxley said.
Garfield County officials urge hikers to be prepared after death in Bryce Canyon National Park
