Frederick P. Ross, age 100, died peacefully at home on February 3, 2021.
He was born in Laurel, DE; the son of Anthony and Cristina Ross. Fred was a World War II veteran who served in the Air Force from 1942 to 1946. Decorations include the World War II Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Fred previously worked for DuPont, Shoprite and Pathmark. In addition, he had several self-employment ventures, owning Ross Brothers Market with his brother Frank, two coin laundries, a dry cleaner, and apartment rental units. Dad was truly a jack of all trades and he excelled at everything he undertook. He enjoyed making homemade wine and he passed this family tradition on to his children.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Lucy; his five children: Tina Derke, Tony (Debbie), Joe (Jeanette), Cammy Jamison (Bob), and Michele Dempsey; his many grandchildren: Nick Derke, Kala Jamison, Samantha Ross, Antoinette Ross, Cole Jamison, Nicole Dempsey, Chris Lex, Vinnie Lex, Nick Lex, and Angela Lex; and great-grandchild Skylar Lex. Fred was predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Cristina; his siblings: Lewis, Frank, Domenick, and Lydia; his son-in-law, Hanns Derke; and his mother-in-law, Carmella Bartone.
Dad’s children saw him as a “superhero” who could do anything, fix anything, and was always there for all of us through the ups and downs. He will be greatly missed. In a recent interview with a young college student, this is what Dad said: “You get out of life what you put into it, even if you end up doing something completely different than you expected. You just have to do a good job, the best you can, and it will return good for you.” Words to live by.
The family would like to thank Compassionate Care Hospice and the staff at The Lorelton for helping us through this difficult time. All funeral services and interment will be held privately. The family will hold a celebration of Fred’s long and good life once covid restrictions are eased. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN38105-9959.
