Local businessman Ed Ross dies at the age of 95 – Zanesville Times Recorder

DRESDEN - A long-time area business ownerdied this week at the age of 95.

Ed Ross(Photo: Submitted)

Edward Ross, founder of Ross Brothers Trucking, and owner of Valley Concrete and Supply, Apache Aggregate and Paving, and Ross Oil Co., passed away May 20, at Genesis Hospice Morrison House.

"Ed was a great man, an old-time gentleman," said Mike Parks, who worked for Ross Brothers Trucking for 27 years. "He was soft spoken, very smart and cared for his family dearly.

Though not blood related, Parks saidhe was always made to feel like part of the Ross family.

"One of his signature trademarks what a subtle pat on the shoulder," Parks said. "He could calm anyone down with just that pat on the shoulder. And, he didn't need a clock to tell him it was noon - time to go eat."

Parks said Ed made a huge contribution to the trucking industry in Coshocton County, and was president of the Ohio Truckers Association for a number of years.

"He was just a generous man all around," Parks said. "He made many dear friends with the business owners. I never heard anyone say a bad word about Ed. He was just a great man."

Ed was the second of four children born to Denny and Mildred Balo Ross on Feb. 16, 1925. On Feb. 25, 1945, just days after his 20th birthday, Ed married Charlene Riley. They celebrated their 75th anniversary this year.

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Together, the couple had three sons James, Donald and Charles.

"The one thing I would want people to know about dad is that he always lived by the Golden Rule- do unto others as you would have them do unto you," said Don Ross. "In my whole life I never saw him treat anyone unkindly or unfairly. He lived a rich and full life because he lived by that principle."

At every family gathering or special occasion Edalways made sure everyone had what they needed before he could feel comfortable to sit down, according to his daughter-in-law, Becky Ross.

Ed and Charlene had13 grandchildrenand 17 great-grandchildren.

"He was our leader, provider, example, and so many other things," said granddaughter, Krista Edwards."He was bigger than life to our family. I am appreciative of all he gave us, the love he had for us and most importantly the love he had for grandma. He was proud of us, even when we disappointed him. And during those times he would let us know both. He taught us how to work hard and earn the things we have in life. He is a legend."

Granddaughter Sarah Harmon said Ed always helped those in need, whether they ask for it or not. "If there was a need, he fulfilled it."

"It is impossible to sum up the life of grandpa in a quotable quote," said granddaughter, Amy Burr."He is unlike anyone i ever knew. He was the center of our family. He was a pillar of the community. He was savvy but not arrogant. He was down-to-earth approachable kind and ever so generous. There is none of us that deserve the love he gave us and none of us will ever be the same without him. He is so greatly missed."

Ed was also active in many social and civic affairs, including Ohio State Grange, Elks, Masons 32nd degree, and Shriners.He supported Tri-Valley High School in its activities and was inducted into the Tri-Valley Hall of Distinction in 2016.

"Grandpa wasnt just amazing for how successful he was in his professional career, although he certainly was very successful,"said grandson, Tim Ross. "It also wasnt just his contributions to the community, which were many. Grandpa was the most kind and straightforward person I have ever known. He took care of all of us and impacted the lives of so many people around him. The world would be a much better place if there were more people like Ed Ross in it. I will miss him every day."

A private family service, under the direction of Miller Funeral Home in Coshocton, will be held. Ed will be laid to rest in South Lawn Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Dresden-Madison Presbyterian Church, 808 High St., Dresden, Ohio 43821 or Genesis Morrison House Hospice, 713 Forest Ave., Zanesville, Ohio 43701.

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Local businessman Ed Ross dies at the age of 95 - Zanesville Times Recorder