Michael David Ross

Michael David Ross, 63, of Osawatomie, Kansas, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on January 11, 1962, Mike grew up in Osawatomie, graduating with the Class of 1980. Though life took him to the Kansas City metro area for a time, he returned home in 1992—where fate, a little encouragement from his brother Ivan, and a waitress named Renee changed the course of his life forever. From the moment Mike met Renee (Conrad), he knew she was the one. Their love story began not only with Renee, but with her two young sons, Brandon and Bryan, whom Mike embraced as his own. Together, they built a family filled with love, laughter, and devotion.

In 1995, after a layoff disrupted his career path, Mike’s selfless nature shone through. Instead of focusing on another management role, he quickly put his CDL to work to support his family. That choice, rooted in sacrifice, began a remarkable 30-year career in the concrete industry. His journey included roles at Sunflower Concrete, Miami County Concrete, and Kincaid Ready Mix, where he rose to Plant Manager in Olathe. Most recently, he served as Director of Operations for the KC Metro with Ozark Ready Mix.

Mike loved his work, but more importantly, he loved the people he worked with. His integrity, wisdom, and loyalty left lasting marks on coworkers and customers alike. The friendships he formed—and the visits and outpouring of support during his final days—were a testament to the respect and admiration he earned. His family will always hold deep gratitude for the Ozark family, whose kindness and appreciation made Mike’s last years in his career truly joyful.

Family was Mike’s pride and purpose. He never missed a game, a school event, or a chance to cheer on his children and grandchildren. Coaching and supporting his kids, and later watching his grandkids shine, brought him immeasurable happiness. Whether it was men’s steak nights with his closest friends, zipping around the yard on his zero-turn mower, savoring a margarita, or enjoying Ross family gatherings, Mike found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a man whose “invisible tail wagged” at the promise of a good meal, a fresh lawn, or time spent with those he loved.

He also had a deep passion for his Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Jayhawks. Mike was not one to get angry often, but everyone knew the surest way to hear him raise his voice was to catch him yelling at the TV when the Chiefs weren’t playing up to his standards. Win or lose, though, he remained a loyal fan through and through.

In his final days, Mike’s youngest son Bryan and his wife Samantha showed him the same unconditional love and devotion that Mike had shown his family throughout his life. They set aside their own routines to make his comfort and care their top priority. Bryan took time away from work so he and Samantha could focus on preparing meals, easing his days, and surrounding him with warmth and laughter. Their care gave Renee the chance to simply love and be present with her husband in his last weeks. This act of devotion will forever stand as a reflection of the values Mike instilled—family first, always.

Mike was preceded in death by his brothers Ivan Ross and Rex Ross, and by his parents Shirley and Troy McCoach.

He is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Renee; his sons and their families:

Bryan and Samantha Switzer, with children Brinlee (12), Elsie (10), Amity (5), and Sylvie (2);Brandon and Kelley Switzer, with children Jameson (20), Reid (7), and Rowan (4).

He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, extended family, countless friends, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Mike’s legacy is one of love, selflessness, and devotion. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, but never at the cost of time spent with them. He doted on Renee, looked up to his brothers, honored his parents, and instilled in his sons and grandchildren a deep sense of loyalty and commitment to family. Though his time with us was cut far too short, Mike leaves behind an enduring legacy of kindness, humility, and strength. We find comfort knowing he is reunited in heaven with his brothers and mother, watching over his family with the same pride and love he carried every day of his life.

“F**k cancer.”

Visitation 6-8 pm Wednesday October 1, 2025 at Eddy-Birchard Funeral Home

Service 11 am Thursday October 2, 2025 at Eddy Birchard Chapel followed by burial at Osawatomie Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions can be made to the Mike Ross Memorial Fund.