David Gross

URBANA - David Gross, 81, died on Sept. 16, 2025, at Meadowbrook Health Center, Urbana. 

He was born in Springfield on Nov. 20, 1943, to parents Carl and Shirley Gross. A graduate of Beardstown High School and Knox College, he earned his Ph.D. in geology from UIUC in 1969. The Illinois State Geological Survey became his professional home for over 30 years. He was instrumental in creating the field of Environmental Geology, publishing early research on the bottom sediments of Lake Michigan. His work focused on fitting people into the physical environment. He was very passionate about scientific research and the ISGS.

While at Knox College, he met Claudia Cole; they married at First Unitarian Church in St. Louis in 1966. He became a Unitarian, a Cardinal fan and a cat parent. She accepted his love of boats and even learned to sail. From 1965, they made their home in Champaign-Urbana and cheered for the Illini, especially the volleyball team. The arrival of sons, Oliver and Alexander, completed the family as they embraced parenthood.

Always the traveler, David researched geology throughout Illinois and beyond, spending a field season in Artarctica. Travels took them to much of the U.S., especially Minnesota, spending time at Camp Unistar each summer for 40 years. For 25 years, David served as a counselor for youth week teaching sailing, mentoring teenagers and making lifelong friends. He loved sailing in nearby Illinois lakes, but especially in Minnesota in summer and the Florida Keys in winter.

In his retirement years, David became a banker serving as chairman of a community bank in Western Illinois. Travels continued, especially cruising in both Europe and North and South America. The family grew with daughters-in-law and four perfect grandchildren; David's favorite name was "Grandpa."

David and Claudia opened their home to host many groups throughout the years, especially the local Democrats, Knox College alumni, UUmembers and friends, neighbors and local friends, as well as family and friends from "away." Moving to ClarkLindsey provided a whole new community as well as a comfortable home.

David is survived by Claudia, his wife of 59 years; sons, Oliver (Kerri Skrudland) of Springfield and Alexander (Jamie) of Marathon, Fla. His granchildren are Michelle (Justin) Welever of Plant City, Fla., Megan Gross of Marathon, Fla., and Benjamin and Samantha Gross of Springfield. He is also survived by his sister, Susan Conner of Springfield and several nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by his parents and grandparents.

David lived a long and good life, accomplishing most of his goals. We are very privileged to have known and loved him. We are especailly grateful to all his colleagues, friends and family who have blessed us with their affection. We thank you all, Champaign-Urbana folks.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at the Unitarian Universalist Church at 309 W. Green St., Urbana, with a reception and light refreshments to follow. His body was cremated. 

Memorial gifts are suggested to UUCUC (Unitarian Universalist Church of Urbana Champaign), Camp Unistar or Knox College.