Stephen Paul Oross

He was born on February 5, 1939, in Hasselt, Belgium. Following World War II, he immigrated to the United States with his mother and sisters, settling in Springfield, Illinois. As a young boy, Stephen learned English by reading comic books and helped support his family by delivering newspapers.

On July 1, 1960, Stephen proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a weapons specialist and earned multiple Marksman Badges. While enlisted, Stephen was proud to march in the inaugural parade for President John F. Kennedy. After he completed his military service, he married the love of his life, Dorothy Metzger, in 1963.

Stephen built a successful career in sales, beginning in life insurance before joining GTE Directories Company selling Yellow Pages advertising. Through dedication and hard work, he advanced from sales representative to District Sales Manager and later Division Sales Manager.

Stephen is survived by his devoted wife, Dorothy Marie Oross; his sons, Stephen Eric Oross and Scott Edward (Melinda) Oross; his daughters, Susan Elisabeth Oross and Sharon Elaine (Rob Voirol) Zink; and his cherished grandchildren, Stephen Aaron Oross, Kayla Anne Zink, Colin Michael (Maddie Hartman) Zink, and Brandon Anthony Zink.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lipot Orosch; his mother, Sofia Babarczi; his brothers, Louis Orosch and Leopold Orosz; and his sisters, Helena Macayova, Maria Szabo, Margaret Tayler, and Elizabeth Nedermann.

Stephen enjoyed traveling and spending time with his family. He was also an avid Notre Dame and Bears fan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, February 6, 2026 with visitation one hour prior at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 4916 Trier Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46815.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church.