Obituary of John Aubrey Ross
John Aubrey Ross was born in Wayne, Michigan on October 3, 1945. He was the son of Ellsworth Allen Ross and Mary Irene (Dove) Ross. He attended school at Wayne Memorial High School.
From the time John could drive, he did. He worked very hard to provide for his family and spent more than forty years in the trucking industry. He drove for several different companies with his final assignment being with Bulkmatic retiring in 2011.
John married the love of his life the former Janice Sue Brey on August 24, 1985 in Canton. He was blessed with the birth of four children. John and Jan moved to Monroe County in February of 2013 from Belleville, Michigan.
As a young man, John, enjoyed the freedom afforded by his Harley Davidson motorcycle. Though not a member of any one motorcycle club, “Cakes” as he was known rode with several different groups. He was a biker, through and through riding in all types of weather even the pouring rain. As time continued and his ability to ride waned, John found a passion in cars and hot rods. He loved to watch drag racing, with Milan Dragway being a favorite destination. He was even fortunate to have his own hot rod a Chevy Nova. Each year, John looked forward to the annual Frankenmuth Autofest Classic Car Show. He will forever be a member of the Ross Brother Hot Rod Garage
John was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. He and Little Joe made many trips to Gregory, Michigan to cast a line. He enjoyed annual turkey shoots. Many of his outdoor experiences were shared with best childhood friend from age 5, Leonard "Lemonade". He was a member of the Ypsilanti Moose Lodge. He enjoyed golfing with his boys. There wasn’t many places, John could be seen without his best friend, four-legged canine companion, Marley.
John was well-known and will forever be remembered for his ability to tell a tale. He had a great sense of humor and was the king of one-liners. It was said that he was full of sh--, and in fact the King of Bullsh--. He didn’t care what others thought of him. John proudly lived life to the fullest and had no regrets. He was honest and always willing to tell anyone how it was or where they stood. No matter how long one knew John, it was certain that they still had no idea of what might come out of his mouth.
John Aubrey Ross, age 77, of Monroe passed away unexpectedly on Thursday; March 2, 2023 at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital after a brief illness. His loving family was at his side. His passing was preceded by his parents; two brothers: Robert and Thomas Ross; and many dear friends.
To cherish his memory he leaves his beloved wife: Janice Sue Ross of Monroe; four children: Robert D. (Marti) Ross of Britton, Thomas E. (Mandi) Ross of New Boston, Annmarie Ross of Ypsilanti, and Keri Ross of Ypsilanti; a sister: Maryann Richardson of Belleville; a brother: Joe (Janice) Ross of Largo, Florida; seventeen grandchildren, including Kayden John he helped to raise; six great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews: especially Joe (Nicole) Ross, Mark Ross (Lynn Dale), and Greg (Barb) Ross.
Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 7:00pm on Monday; March 6, 2023 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 7:00pm also at Merkle’s, when guests will be encouraged to share a memory of John. Cremation will follow through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.
Memorials in his honor are suggested to the Ross Family to assist with funeral arrangements. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.