Ronald Warren Ross

Ron was a man of faith, a father, coach, mentor, and a friend.

Ron and his twin sister, Shirley Nora, were born on March 8, 1935, in San Francisco, California, to Warren Thomas Ross and Elvera May Ross. After graduating high school Ron enlisted in the Coast Guard where he was stationed in Alaska, Seattle and Point Robinson, Vashon Island. Many years later he returned to make his home on Vashon for 32 years with his wife Lila to raise their family. Ron and Lila then retired to Gig Harbor, Washington. While their children, Kevin and Kristi, remained living on the Island.

Following several years of failing health, he passed away at the age of 89 on November 26, 2024.

Ron loved his years on the island enjoying many activities including soccer, both playing and coaching youth soccer and refereeing Vashon High School (VHS) soccer matches. He was a volunteer coach for the VHS Cross Country team where his son Kevin was assistant coach to Russ Brazill. His love of running led to his regularly competing in the Bill Burby fun run as well as several marathons where father and son enjoyed running many races together. His daughter Kristi’s love of horses led to the family owning several horses and participating in the Rock Riders Horse Club. His love of the outdoors included hiking and mountain climbing. He climbed Mt. Rainier several times and belonged to the Mountaineers Club.

In his later years he was an avid golfer and joined the Madrona Mens’ Club in Gig Harbor. Lila and Ron helped raise a generation of children who spent their days at Lila’s Little People Day Care. The children especially loved the horseback rides, bike rides and field trips Ron gave them.

Ron was a man of faith and an active member at Bethel Church during his years on the island. He was a father, coach, mentor, and friend. He taught us to be relentless, never quit, and to put our hearts into everything we do in life. But most important he put his faith in Jesus Christ our personal savior which was very meaningful in the lives of the people around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Warren and Vera Ross; son David A. Ross; twin sister Shirley Ross; and brother David L. Ross. He is survived by his wife of 56 years Lila; children Gail and grandson D.K. Ross of Tacoma, Washington; Carey (Wayne) and grandson Eric Cox of Bothell, Washington; Son Kevin Ross; and Kristi (Jesse) and grandchildren Alivia, Grant, Naomie, Mira and Lana Jones all of Vashon, Washington.

March 8, 1935 – November 26, 2024