Melvin Eugene Ross

86, of Hemet (formerly 43 years in National City), passed peacefully into God's hands on January 15, 2015, his daughter and her children by his side.

He joins his wife of 67 years, Orpha Maxine, and his son, Richard Dean Ross, as well as numerous family members who have gone before.

Melvin was born in May 27, 1929 in Maryville, MO, one of 5 sons to Elizabeth and Leo Ross. His father passed away when he was very young, and the family moved to Kansas City area after that. He spent much of his young life in hospitals, and under the care of a Doctor, who took him into his home until he could join his family. During that time, his teacher took him to art museums for outings, and he developed his love of art, and his talent for drawing and painting.

He met Maxine when they both worked in Kansas City at Greyhound bus, and were married shortly after.

Melvin was in WW2 in Army-Air force, and was discharged into the National Guard (by that time he and Maxine had two sons, Richard and Melvin Jr.)

He joined the Santa Fe railroad and spend the next 45 years as an agent, in both passenger and freight, all over the country, until he settled in National City and retired in 1976.

He was very active in National City politics, and was a member of numerous service organizations, and helped found the South Bay Democratic Club in the area. He also ran for mayor and then City Council. He earned his 4th degree (the highest possible) in the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his remaining children, Melvin Ross Jr. and his wife Nancy of Las Vegas, his daughter, Sherri Ann Arballo of Hemet, CA, and daughter in law Betty Ross (Richard Ross) of Barstow, CA

Grandchildren: Jose and Armando Arballo, Melvin III and Jason Ross, Richard and Steven Ross, Brenda Folden, Athena Appel and Lisa Ronne, as well as numerous great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. Brothers and Sister Leo Ross, Charles Huntington, Ann Simmons, Olin Wright and Corena Wright.

Services will be Wednesday, January 28, 2015.

Visitation and Rosary 9AM,

Liturgy of the Word/Funeral Mass 10am, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 505 E Mt, View in Barstow.

Burial at Mt. View Memorial Park 37067 Irwin Road Barstow.

Luncheon at the home of Betty Ross following.

Arrangements are being handled by Mead Mortuary. 760-256-5671