George L. Ross

George Luther Ross, 91 of Gaylord, passed away at home peacefully on Saturday, July 2, 2016 with his family at his side.  Born in Reed City on December 30, 1924, he was the son of Daniel “Red” and Clara Ross.  After living in Michigan’s thumb area for a few years, the family moved to an area of Shelby Township, then known as Disco.

George graduated from Utica High School before serving proudly in the U.S. Navy during World War II.  He came from a strong patriotic family, his father having served in World War I, his brother Don also served in World War II and his brother Bruce served in the Korean War.

After returning home he attended business school and later went to work in the maintenance department at Utica Community Schools.

George’s sister Judi had introduced him to her friend, Joyce (Copping) Piper.  Joyce lived in Alpena, and they were married there on October 12, 1974.  They continued to live in Utica where George worked.  He retired from Utica Community Schools in 1986 and in 1989 George and Joyce moved to Gaylord.

He loved to be outdoors, enjoying both downhill and cross country skiing, riding bicycles and gardening.  George and Joyce enjoyed traveling in their pickup camper, visiting every state except Hawaii.

George was a faithful, active member of the Gaylord First United Methodist Church.  He was known as the “potato man” for the churches annual pasty project.  He enjoyed helping with any project when asked.

“Everyone loves George” was a phrase his family heard often.  He was a loving husband and father who had a special love for children.  He was a kind and generous man who never met a stranger.  George’s sister, Judi Burns dearly loved her brother and she was a special blessing during his illness.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce; his son, Timothy Ross of Levering, stepsons, Rick and Dave Piper both of Alpena; his sisters, Judi (Fred) Burns of Gaylord and Thelma Tank of Edgewater, FL; his step grandchildren, Steven (Ana) Piper, Richard Piper, Ian Piper, Mindy Stevens and Hilary (Scott) Robinette; great grandchildren, Remy and Lily Piper, Reid Cousineau, Hannah and Hailee Robinette; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by a step son, Steven Piper; and brothers, Donald and Bruce Ross.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, July 8, 2016 at the Gaylord United Methodist Church, 215 South Center Avenue where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:30 AM.  Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Church or to Hospice of Michigan.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com