Ronald George Ross

Born to Helena and George Ross in Anchorage, Alaska, Ron lived a life with many paths marked by adventure, service, faith, family and friends.

Ron's early life was filled with change, he was blessed with a mom who loved him to his core, giving him solace to hold through dark times. He grew up in Seattle, Washington with his siblings Bob, Bill and Anna. Ron's true nature was gentle and kind, with a huge dose of stubbornness. Ron attended Ballard High School and believed he would follow the path of a theologian, however, Father convinced Ron to join the service. He chose the Navy and became a member of the Golden Dragon's Attack Squadron 192m, stationed on the USS Kitty Hawk during the end of the Vietnam War. His time in service instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and camaraderie that would remain with him throughout his life. Following his military service, Ron pursued underwater work by attending the Diver's Institute of Technology. There he trained as a commercial diver and embarked on a career in underwater construction. "Blowing bubbles", as he fondly called it, was more than just a job. Ron followed this work along the American coast and had many memorable positions, including diving on the treasure ship Atocha for Mel Fisher, working on the Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant, and the Charles River cleanup project in Boston. Eventually he settled in Gloucester, Massachusetts, where he installed hundreds of pilings, checked moorings for locals, helped refurbish the Blynman Bridge, and extended Gloucester's outfall pipe on the Zeus, a "Texas Tower" rig. Ron then transitioned to the semiconductor industry. This opened the door to world travel and showcased his adaptability and technical skills. Escalating health issues encouraged Ron to take yet another tack, and he earned his CDL license to work for local companies such as Strong and Windriver until he retired.

Although Ron slowed down, his hands were rarely still. He had an innate ability to turn raw materials into something beautiful and meaningful. He shared a love of woodworking with his friend Chris (Slim) Larsen and found himself, in retirement, helping Slim with specialty installations around Cape Ann and surrounding areas. It was his passion.

Ron's careers were extraordinary, but looking back, it's clear that his true life's calling was the string of relationships he formed along the way. Throughout his grand adventure, Ron never walked alone. His personality attracted the unsuspecting bystander and pulled them in before they knew what hit them. A good sense of humor was key, he loved to share his ha-ha's and all his many stories with all who would listen, especially his beloved coffee shop crews whom he frequented on a regular basis. If he appreciated something in you, he did not hesitate to fold you into his life, forming a family of friends who are true and loyal.

He accepted you as you were with all flaws exposed, for he had a few of his own. One of Ron's most generous and gracious qualities was his ability to celebrate loved ones' accomplishments. He was your biggest cheerleader and would lift you up until you were grinning ear to ear. His greatest relationship came with the birth of his daughter Ashley. Her needs demanded him rise to the challenge, to be all that he could be. They are best friends, and his greatest love.

Ron took pride in years of sobriety, and during the last ten years took more control of his health habits. This included adopting his dog, Shadow, who was his best buddy; they were inseparable. This extra time allowed Ron to fine-tune and reflect on the relationships in his life. He had a profound and personal relationship with God and was joyfully baptized a few short years ago. He was so proud of his families and their achievements.

Ron's early years were a series of ends and beginnings, times he needed to walk away to carve himself a new place. We will remember him for his strength of character, generous spirit, and boundless love for those around him. Ron's legacy lies in his perseverance and tenacity. His advice to you would be to never give up in life.