H. Stewart Ross

H. Stewart Ross was born on August 6th, 1925, to Harry and Helen (Jones) Ross, in Benton Harbor Michigan. Stewart was an elementary school student at the Lafayette School; and attended all four years of high school at Cranbrook, in southeastern Michigan. Throughout his youth, he assisted with the family business, Ross Carrier, which manufactured logging and road building equipment. After graduating from high school, he was accepted at Carleton College, where he intended to pursue an education degree as a chemistry professor. When he could not complete the required math and German classes, Stewart transferred to Nashota Seminary, where he graduated as a licentiate of Theological Studies in 1946.

He was ordained into the Episcopal Church in May 1948. He built a parish and became rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in St. Joseph, Michigan. On February 1, 1954, he married Victoria Ann Boothby, and together they had four children. Stewart worked in local hospitals providing pastoral work to the sick. He was a member of the school board and actively worked in the community on civil rights issues during the 1960’s.

Stewart left Michigan following his divorce in 1969, and moved to the northwest, where his parents lived as children. He married Jean Adams, and became a member of the clergy at Trinity Episcopal Church in Everett. He continued to work in the local hospitals and contributed to many area art and education organizations. He assisted in launching the Drop Everything and Read Program in the Everett public schools, and donated to the Edmonds Community College Childcare Facility. And to the Western Washington University Library.

Stewart inspired hope and encouragement in many individuals by listening, sharing his wisdom, and telling stories. He was a cherished friend and support for people of all ages. He loved to travel, had a scholarly understanding of art and music, greatly appreciated a good joke, and was an ardent supporter and member of AA. Stewart firmly believed that it was better to give than to receive.

During the last year of his life, he attended his 70th high school reunion, celebrated 29 years of sobriety, and could easily recite Latin verses. Stewart died peacefully on January 27th, 2014, close to home. He is survived by his four children: Sarah, Deborah, Harry and James; and ten grand children: Nora, Ella, Makala, Harry, Todd, Alice, Colin, Emily, Jake and John.

Service information will be added as available.