Richard Gene Ross

Richard Gene Ross passed away unexpectedly on July 18, 2024, at the age of 80 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. Born on December 14, 1943, to Clifford and Dorothy Esser Ross, he was the first of six children. Gene was a lifelong resident of Greene and a cherished member of the community.

After graduating from Greene High School in 1962, he joined the family business, Ross Plumbing & Heating. Gene later went on to purchase the business and proudly served his customers with honesty and integrity. On September 15, 1963, Gene married the love of his life, Sandra Bruns at St. John Lutheran Church in Vilmar. They were blessed with three children and a lifetime of laughs and adventures.

His commitment extended beyond his professional life; he was deeply involved in various civic activities. Gene served on the Board of the Greene Sportsman Club, Summer Rec, and Greene Swimming Pool. He also volunteered for 25 years on the Greene Fire Department, was active in the Jaycees, and served as a Cub Scout Master and Webelo Leader.

Known for his quiet and humble demeanor, Gene had a profound love for the outdoors. He spent countless hours fishing at the Shell Rock River and shared his passion for hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. In his youth, he worked at Greene Lanes bowling alley and B&W Fine Foods, fostering a strong work ethic from an early age.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Sandra; his children, Todd (Teri) Ross of Pleasant Hill, IA; Traci (David) Zvokel of Bondurant, IA; and Tara (Brad) Raymond of Urbandale, IA. He was a proud grandfather to Nicholas Ross, Carter Ross, Christian Zvokel, Kinsey Zvokel, and Dante Raymond. He also leaves behind his brother Dennis (Mary Jane) Ross; sisters Nancy (David) Boehmer and Susan Rath; and sister-in-law Sally Ross. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Gary and Robert, and infant grandson Anthony Ray Ross.

A visitation and funeral service to honor Gene's life will both be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church at 324 E. Traer St in Greene on Thursday, July 25, 2024. Visitation from 9:30am to 10:30am, followed by a memorial service at 11:00am. A private family burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations which will be distributed to St. Peter Lutheran Church and Lutheran Services-Bremwood. Gene's life was a testament to his dedication to his family and community, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.