Gerald E. Ross

Gerald E. Ross, age 68, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Edward Hines VA Hospital in Maywood, IL. He was born on October 6, 1956, in New Albany, IN, to Stephen Ross and Maxine Ross (née Parsons).

Affectionately known as “Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchild, “Uncs” to his nieces and nephews, and simply “Ross” to nearly everyone else, Jerry was raised on the North Side of Chicago in Wrigleyville, where he became a lifelong Cubs fan. He attended Lake View High School before proudly serving in the United States Army. During his military service, he earned both the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. One of his favorite stories to share was about leaving most of his belongings behind in Germany to make room in his luggage for as many bottles of Jägermeister as possible—a drink he had never seen stateside but instinctively knew would be a hit. History proved him right.

After completing his honorable military service, he met the love of his life in 1977 and they were married that same year. He pursued a career in HVAC, first as a technician and later as a teacher at Cave Technical Institute. In the late 1990's, he shifted his focus to information technology work with MPower Communications.

Jerry had a deep love of music, particularly classic rock. The Beatles and Kansas held a special place in his heart. He was proud to have seen Kansas in their early days playing small venues and even had the chance to share a drink with the band afterward- a chance meeting that sparked a lifelong love of their music. Over the years he attended many concerts, sharing that passion with his children by taking them to their first concert. In a beautiful full circle moment, his children later took him to Kansas' 50th Anniversary show, where he once again met the band he loved so much.

Above all, he was a man who cherished time with his family and close friends. He enjoyed fishing, camping, cheering on the Chicago Bears, and watching The Three Stooges, Star Trek, and scary movies.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Donna Ross (née West); his siblings Stephen Ross Jr., Paula (the late Bob) Avery, and Joyce (the late Walter) Johnson; and his cherished pups, Shane “Doodle” and Montgomery Scott “Scotty.”

Jerry is survived by his children: Michael Ross and Tiffany (David) Hanson; stepchildren: Lorie (Glade) Hooley and Robert Siblik; grandchildren: Daniel Siblik, Allyson Freeman, Zachary Hooley, Catherine Hooley, and Jakob Hanson; great-grandchild: Lilah Maxine Freeman; his sister: Lisa Ashford Valadez. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives he touched.

In accordance with Jerry’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. His earthly remains, along with those of his beloved wife Donna, will be inurned at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood, IL 60421, during a committal service with full military honors on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. Guests are kindly asked to arrive by 12:15 p.m. to ensure timely participation in the scheduled ceremony.

Following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at Stone City VFW Post 2199, 124 Stone City Dr., Joliet, IL 60436. All who knew and loved Jerry are warmly invited to attend, wear their favorite Cubs attire, share memories, and raise a glass in his honor.

“There’ll be peace when you are done.” — Kansas