Butch Gross

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Albert Earl “Butch” Gross, 78, who died on December 21, 2024, with his daughter by his side in Grand Junction, CO. Born in Craig, CO, April 11, 1946, to Vern Woodrow Gross and Gertrude Louise Speckman, he was the fourth of six children. Preceding him in death were his parents, brothers Vern Jr. (Sonny) and Carl Gross, sisters Leona Kawalke and Tracy Habel.

Butch attended high school at Moffat County High School and upon graduation entered the National Guard. There he trained to be a weapons specialist, or as he liked to say, he got to shoot those big guns.

On January 16, 1973, Butch married his true love, Glenda Sue James, and together they shared a remarkable bond that touched everyone around them. Butch not only found a soulmate but also embraced a new role that brought him even more joy: becoming a loving father to a little girl, Floydene. He welcomed her into his life with open arms and a full heart, and their father-daughter relationship became one of his greatest treasures.

Throughout his life, Butch worked with dedication and pride in many roles that showcased his diverse talents and commitment. Following in his father’s footsteps, Butch started his career as a ranch hand, where he found his other true love, horses. Over the years, he also worked as a long-haul truck driver and oil well pumper. His career spanned many decades, taking him to all but a couple of states on the east coast. But it was the hours on the road, hauling wild horses and mules, that brought him the most joy.

Butch was a man of kindness, integrity, and a deep commitment to family, full of love and laughter. He never knew a stranger and could shoot the bull with the best of them. His mischievous smile and warmth will be dearly missed by his daughter and son-in-law, Floydene and Bill Orchard, of Baggs, WY, grandsons Colton Orchard of Douglas, WY, Clay Orchard of Dixon, WY, and his eldest sister, Edith Schiller of Bakersfield, CA, as well as by his many nieces/nephews and close friends and colleagues.

A celebration of Butch’s life will be held at the Valley Community Center on January 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.