It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Roy Ross, affectionately known as Rick, who left us on November 6, 2024, at the age of 68.
Rick was born on December 14, 1955, in Cleveland, OH, to Robert and Shirley (Porter) Ross. He grew up in Lakewood, OH, and had the privilege of living in various places, including Washington State and Tennessee, where he ultimately made his home.
Rick’s career began with ten years at Republic Steel before transitioning into his work as a tow truck driver at Baker Motors in Lakewood, OH. He worked for many years as a dealership Service Advisor before becoming an account sales representative in automotive supply sales, a field in which he worked until his retirement in 2019 from Wesmar Products in Mukilteo, WA.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, Rick had a passion for Goldwing motorcycles, which he rode as often as possible. Whether it was conquering the Dragon’s Tail, attending the legendary Sturgis rally, or exploring the Pacific Northwest with his close friends Steve and Anthony, Rick was happiest on the open road. He loved the freedom of the ride, the camaraderie of fellow riders, and the adventures that came with it.
Rick’s love for life extended beyond his motorcycling adventures. He enjoyed tinkering and could often be found working on a new remodeling project or riding his golf cart around his neighborhood, offering a helping hand to his neighbors. He had a special bond with his family, always ready to lend his support, and enjoyed traveling with his wife, Dorene, on vacations and camping trips filled with new discoveries and shared memories.
A proud member of the Masonic community, Rick was a two-time past master of Clifton-Gaston Allen Lodge No. 664 in Lakewood, OH.
Rick is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Shirley Ross; his brother, Robert Edwin Ross of Newport, MI; and his sister, Nancy Reed of Lakewood, OH.
He is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Dorene Ross (Spear Liebhart) of White House, TN; his sons, Colin (Maura) Ross of Euclid, OH and Richard Charles (Ricky) Ross of North Ridgeville, OH; his bonus son, Jesse Liebhart of Nashville, TN; his bonus daughter, Rachael (Kyle) Sholtis of Uniontown, OH; and his cherished grandchildren, Taryn and Casen Sholtis of Uniontown, OH and Lily Furlan of Euclid, OH. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and his “Brothers by Heart,” Al Sigetic, Bob Dunn, and Steve Rezba.
A memorial service to celebrate Rick’s life will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House, TN, with visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. prior to the service. A second Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 14th, 2024 (Rick’s 69th birthday) at Spear-Mulqueeny Funeral Home, Painesville, OH. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Lakewood Park Memorial Gardens in Rocky River, OH.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made for future charitable contributions in Rick’s memory.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 533 Highway 76, White House, TN 37188. (615) 672-5000. https://www.austinandbell.com
For more obituaries visit https://robertsoncountysource.com/obituaries/
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