ROSS, Robert John With deep sorrow, we announce we have lost a caring husband, a loving father and grandpa. Robert John Ross passed away at the Red Deer Nursing Home on Sunday, December 19, 2004 at the age of 81 years. "Bob" was born December 15, 1923 in Markerville, growing up at a farm near Penhold. He served many years at the Alberta Gas Company, then 17 years with Dominion Fruit, finally working as a salesman for Northwest Motors until illness forced retirement in 1993. His many customers fondly remember his love of cars and people. Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman in his early years and then developed a passion for skiing and motorcycle riding. His spare time involved yard work, gardening and fixing his cars. Bob married Carol (nee Pistawka) on August 22, 1951 in Red Deer and resided there until his passing. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol, loving son Curtis (Sheri) of Calgary, loving daughter Paulette (Tom) Lerch of Red Deer, one surviving sister Audra Ross of Calgary, a step-sister Norma-Jean Gault of Calgary, five grand daughters; Melanie, Melissa, Rechelle, Keisha and Brittany, several nieces, nephews and many friends. Bob had a heart of gold, an inner strength and compassion that made him a strong-willed and wonderful man to all who knew him. His most important factor of life was his family, which came first over anything else. His greatest joy and love were the family times together. We mourn his passing, but his memory lives on. The family expresses their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Dr. R. Rigby, Dr. D.C. Elliot and the wonderful, supportive staff at the Red Deer Nursing Home. A celebration of Robert's life will be held at the Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 - 67A Street, Red Deer on Wednesday, December 22, 2004 at 1:00 p.m. with the Reverend John Yoos officiating. In memory of Robert John Ross Memorial Tributes may be made to the charity of ones choice. Condolences may be forwarded to the family at www.parklandfuneralhome.com. In living memory of Robert John Ross, a tree will be planted in the Parkland Funeral Home Memorial Tree Park.