FULTON, NY – Donald M. Ross, of Fulton, passed away on Tuesday March 12, 2019, after a brief illness.
He and his wife of 62 years lived in the Fulton community for the most part of their lives.
Don worked for Armstrong World Industries for 32 years retiring as plant engineer.
In his retirement, Don was very active in the Fulton community volunteering his time with The Rotary Club, Mount Adnah Cemetery Board, Fulton YMCA, Grace Lutheran Church as well as supporting other organizations.
Donald was born February 22, 1931, in Ogdensburg, to Alexander and Grace Rodee Ross of Newton Falls, NY.
He graduated from Newton Falls Union School where he was active in sports.
Don attended Cornell University, his father and brother’s alma-mater, graduating in 1952 with a degree in mechanical engineering and an ATO member.
From his early days in the North Country, and throughout his life, Don retained a love for the Adirondack woods and the cultivation of trees.
He was active with the American Chestnut society and enjoyed cultivating trees on his property.
Don was a Master Forester Owner.
Immediately after graduating from college Don joined the Navy serving as lieutenant with the Seabees in Squantum Mass., and later in South Weymouth Mass.
He began his civilian career with Babcock and Wilcox, Barberton, Ohio, where he met his wife, Mary Ellen Carroll.
They were wed in 1956 in Akron, Ohio at Bethany Lutheran Church and settled in Fitchburg, Mass.
Three years later, Don took an engineering position with Armstrong World Industries and moved his family to Fulton.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Ellen of Fulton; four children, Andrew (Cindy) of Mexico, Ellen (Rick) Himes of Fulton, Barbara (Dana) Tate of Rochester and Sarah Arena of Rochester, formerly of Mexico; nine grandchildren, Andrea Ross, Alyssa (Zachary) Raymond, Victoria Ross, Gillian (Timothy) Hahn, Melissa (Jessica Combs) Himes, Ashley Tate, Tiffany Tate, Louie Arena and Marteen Arena; one great-granddaughter; Gretchen Hahn; sister-in-law, Anne Ross; and as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 22, at Foster Funeral Home, 910 Fay St., Fulton.
A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 23, at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Mount Adnah Cemetery, East Broadway, Fulton, in the Spring.
One may plant a tree or make a donation to the charity of your choice in lieu of flowers, in Don’s memory.
Foster Funeral Home
www.fosterfuneralhome.com
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I’m so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. He was a true gentleman and will be missed by his family, friends and community. My deepest condolences to Mary Ellen and the entire Ross family.
My condolences. Mr. Ross was a good neighbor and friend.
My condolences to Mary Ellen and her family. May Don Rest in Peace.
Don and Mary Ellen have always wonderful supporters and members of CNY Arts Center. His encouraging smile will be greatly missed. Our hearts and prayers are with Mary Ellen and family in this time of sorrow. Nancy Fox