E. John Ross

E. John Ross

E. John Ross of Salt Lake City passed away on March 19^th, at the age of 88, from complications of Pneumonia.

John was born April 28^th, 1921, in Deming, New Mexico to John Jepsey Ross and Clara Mae Leggett.  His father passed away when John was young and he and his brother James Grady “Bob” were raised by his mother and stepfather Ralph Anderson.  John grew up in southern California and graduated from Alexander Hamilton High School in Culver City.  He was an Eagle Scout and was awarded recognition for saving three swimmers in the surf at Marina Del Rey.

He proudly served his country in the Navy as a pilot during World War II.  Following his years of service he attended and graduated from Pepperdine College with a B.S. degree.  While attending Pepperdine, he met his sweetheart Jeanne Claire Jacks and they enjoyed 64 years together.  He served General Motors as a loyal employee for 32 years and John and his family enjoyed living in many parts of the country.

John was a hard worker, avid reader, loved motorcycles and mechanics, enjoyed exploring ghost towns and the desert.  He had a great sense of humor and was a generous and devoted father.

He is survived by his wife Jeanne; sons Jeff (Kay) and Dave; grandsons Ryan and Dave II; and great granddaughter Raegan Jae. 

Preceded in death by his parents and brother James Grady.

A celebration of John’s life for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, March 24^th from 6 to 8 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City.  John’s burial will be held in Santa Barbara, CA on March 26^th.