ROSS – Amazing would sum up the life of James Robert Ross Sr., 57 of Sanford, who died May 10, 2010 at the MidMichigan Medical Center. Also known as honey, dad, Big Jim, Uncle Jim, and a good friend to all. He was born July 1, 1952 in Midland, son of Arlene (Klopp) Ross and the late Jack Ross. Jim was currently employed at B & B Salvage and was married to the love of his life Sandra for almost 38 years. Jim loved to take Sandra for rides to get ice cream and coffee. He so enjoyed just being with her and never drove in the car without holding her hand. Jim was an incredible father always making sure his children were taken care of and he would slip them money every time he had a chance. He loved his grandchildren more than life, taking them for rides on the frontend loader, having sleepovers and only grandpa could pull off the best of bonfires. There was no one who loved to help others like he did. He served as an Executive Deacon in his church for many years, he was one of the best. When you needed work done on your car, he was happy to do it. He would never take your money, but loved to trade you for what you had (usually involved food). He was so fun to be around, between his unique sense of humor and his smile he could change the course of your day.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sandra; son, James (Kylee) Ross of Midland; daughters, Jennifer (Steve) Benzing and Julia Ross both of Midland; grandchildren, Jameson R. Ross, Sydnee T. Ross, Cole M. Benzing and Graham E. Benzing all of Midland; his mother, Arlene Ross of Midland, brothers and sisters, Mary (Jim) Gettel of Sebewaing, Karen (Skip) Brousseau of Bellaire, Robert J. Ross of Coleman, Richard J. (Terri) Ross, John P. (Patti) Ross both of Midland and sister-in-law, Mary Ross of Midland. In addition to his father, Jim was predeceased by a brother, David J. Ross.
~Memorial Service~
Memorial Services will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, May 14, 2010 from the Living Word Church, 2010 N. Stark Rd. Rev. Mark T. Barclay will officiate.
~Visitation~
Jim’s family will receive friends at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until time of service.
~Memorials~
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Jim Ross Family.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Directors, where there will be no visitation.