Gerald Arthur Ross

Gerald Arthur Ross (Jerry) was born January 20,1934 in Salt Lake City to Arthur Reinhold Ross and Clara Christine Olsen Ross. He moved to Portland, OR when he was 5 years old. Dave (brother) joined the family, and they made their home in SE Portland.

Jerry attended Ilewellyn Elementary and Cleveland High School. He was an outstanding athlete and was awarded a scholarship to play basketball at the University of Oregon. He is listed in the "Hall of Fame" at U of O for basketball and baseball. After completing his education degree and receiving his teaching certificate, Jerry enlisted in the U.S.A.F. where he became a pilot and official watcher for Santa Claus and his reindeer December 24th on the air force radar! He retired from the air force and taught and coached many years in Gresham, Troutdale and University of Portland.

Jerry and first wife Marlene had 2 sons, troy and Toby. They divorced and Jerry married his second wife Shalline and inherited 4 step-daughters in addition he enjoyed many step-grandchildren. Jerry is an accomplished woodworker and builder. He built his house in Troutdale and 2 houses in Sun River. He was a master gardener and the envy of the neighborhood! As an artist, he painted in the Bob Ross style. Many of us have his paintings on our walls.

Jerry played Masters softball countless years winning lots of games and traveling to Arizona in the winter for competitions. In addition to the snow-birding in AZ, Jerry and Shalline had a timeshare in Mexico and an RV that they enjoyed travelling in. Jerry is a life-long member of the LDS church serving in various roles including deacon.

Jerry will be remembered for his love of the Lord, his family, his many talents, abilities, hobbies and his little dog Bo-Bo. He is preceded in death by his wife Shalline and his son Troy.