Nicholas Eugene Ross

Ross Nicholas Eugene Ross, 77, of Upland passed away on August 19, 2007. He was born August 17, 1930 in Auburn, New York to Mary and Eugene Ross. Nick came to California in 1949 and attended the California College of Mortuary Science. He met and married Gretchen Krueger in 1952. He served from 1952 to 1954 in the U.S. Army as a member of the 187th Airborne during the Korean War. Upon his discharge f rom the Army, he worked as an embalmer and funeral director for Pierce Brothers Mortuary in Los Angeles. After 3 years, Nick left the mortuary business and started his sales career at Squibb Pharmaceuticals selling medical equipment and surgical supplies. In 1970, Nick found his niche in the oil and gas business and while working for Geotek Oil and in 1972, formed his own oil and gas syndication company and managed many successful drilling ventures up until the time of his death. Nick was a member of Red Hill Country Club since 1973. His interests included golf, fishing, hunting, sailing, gardening and he was an accomplished pianist. Often Nick could be found at the piano creating and playing his own unique arrangements of his favorite songs. But most of all, Nick enjoyed spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Gretchen Ann, his mother, Mary Ross, 97, his children, David Ross, Victoria (Kym) Nicholas, Cathy (Mike) Wolters, Toni (Doug) Hollo way, Gigi (Mark) Tundis and Debbie (Matt) Burdick; 12 grandchildren, John, Derek, Allison, Marissa, Lisa, Matt, Nick, Alec, Valerie, Jill, Mikey and Gretchen. Memorial contributions can be made to Steven's Hope for Children, 1014 West Foothill Blvd., Upland, CA 91786 (866) 378-3836. Funeral arrangements are pending with Stone Funeral Home, Upland, (909) 982-1369.