October 2023

David Dare Ross, 77, of Ottawa, passed away on Monday, September 25, 2023.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 28, from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A private graveside burial will be held on Friday at Oakwood Memorial Park. 

David was born on May 16, 1946, in Streator, Illinois to Muriel (Sipe) and David Ross. He married Helena Jacobs on June 17, 1975.

He grew up in Streator and attended NIU before being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War where he was awarded the Bronze Star. He worked for his childhood best friend and brother-in-law, Ron Powers, at Starved Rock Marina for many years before joining his brother-in-law, Bill Franklin, at B&B Electronics. After retirement, he drove for NCAT, which he called the best job because he was able to help so many people, his favorite being his Friendship Village patrons. David loved to golf and went on many trips with his wife, family, and friends. He enjoyed cheering on the Cubs, Bears, and the Illini, as well as his children and grandchildren at countless sporting events and recitals over the years. He cherished the good times with his best buddy, Pat Graham, as well as his neighbors and friends, Jack and Eddie Abernathy, who kept him entertained and laughing during his illness.

He was a member of St. Columba Church and a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus.

David leaves behind his wife of 48 years; two children, Sarah (Andrew) Alsene and David (Brittany) Ross; six grandchildren, Ivy, Dominic, and Dax Alsene and Crue, Kendall, and Luke Ross; his sister, Susan Creech; his brother and sister in laws, Bill and Gloria Franklin and Ron and Maryanne Powers; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-mother, Margaret Ross; his brother-in-law, David Creech; his niece, Leigh Duncan; and his granddaughter, Mia Alsene.

Memorials may be directed to Friendship House or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

David has been laid to rest in the Garden of Prayer at Oakwood Memorial Park.