Loving, Caring and Teasing.
Traveler of Many Highways.
At 84 years old, James Anthony Ross died of a heart attack while on a cruise near Central America, on Friday May 13, 2016.
He was born in Lewistown, MT, on July 8, 1932, to John F. Ross and Johanna Tuss.
He was the oldest of 4 children; attended Saint Leo's school. As an adult: worked the oil fields from Calgary, Alberta to Oklahoma; was an inspector at the Hungry Horse Dam, then moved to Seattle with his best friend Ted Gore. He met and married Reta Harles Bollinger in Seattle; they were married 46 years. His career was with Kaiser Gypsum, Norwest Gypsum, and finally James Hardy; a hard working dedicated Foreman from 1954 to 1990. Travel was an important break from many long hours of work, and in retirement they were “Snow birds,” traveling south by motorhome in the winter.
James dedicated many hours to community service in his retirement; first driving veterans to their doctors’ appointments, then for many years providing sustenance and care giving in the waiting room of the VA hospital. He was honored for many years of service to the West Seattle Food Bank.
He belonged to the West Seattle Sportsman's Club for many years making sure there were clams on the table and providing the necessities for "Big Game" dinners. Jim was a member of the Foresters and attended many of its functions and dinners. Being a stand-in for Santa at Christmas parties and playing pinochle were only two of the highlights of his membership.
The Eagles were an important part of his life, especially the community that he connected with and enjoyed in his later years.
He was the consummate caregiver.
He reveled in others' successes and would go out of his way to serve, and support them. He worked very hard to provide for and take care of his family and acquaintances.
He is survived by his children: Nancy Ross-Bruels (Dave Bruels), Kevin Ross (Lynny Ross), Jeffrey Ross, Rene Ross Charoni (Timothy Charoni); Grandchildren: Louisa Ross (Chris Hunt), Jesse Ross (Justina Ross), Jennifer Charoni, Allison Charoni, and Ariana Charoni; and Great-Grandchild Zander Ross.
His Sister Barbara Janicek (James Janicek), {sister Mary Ann Belonga, and brother Gerald Ross are deceased}. Sister in law Leah Ross, brother-in-law Gene Belonga, and companion Karen Smith.
On July 5, 2016:
Rosary(10:30 AM), Funeral Mass (following) at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Parish
7000 35th Ave SW, Seattle WA 98126
Celebration of Life: 1:30 PM, at White Center Eagles
10452 15th Ave SW, Seattle WA 98146
Published in the West Seattle Herald section of the Westside Weekly, June 24, 2016 and July 1, 2016.
