Eternal Patrol: Don Ross

Seattle Base member Don Ross departed on Eternal Patrol on September 5, 2015 after a lengthy illness.

Don and Shirley Ross at the 2014 Tolling the Boats Ceremony

Don was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 25, 1933. He graduated from Mattawan High School in Michigan, where he excelled in football, basketball, baseball and track. He was the state champion in the 880 yard dash and school record holder for 10 years.

He served with great pride in the U.S. Navy as a Radioman and was stationed in New London, Conn. on the submarine USS Tusk (SS-426) from 1952 to 1956. After the Navy, Don returned to Michigan, where he worked for the Kalamazoo Gazette. In 1968 he moved to Bothell, WA and worked as a printer at the Seattle Times until his retirement.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Shirley, his children, Marjorie Scarsorie (Jim) of Mukilteo, Diana Roberts (Kevin) of Marysville and Kelly Askew (Dave) of Lynnwood, WA, seven grandchildren, Nick and Rachel Scarsorie, Kameron and Kaylene Roberts and Austin, Amy and Andrew Askew, all of whom he called his "pride and joy".

Don was an exceptionally generous and humble man who had a loving heart for his family and for those in need, continually giving of his time and resources. He will be missed immeasurably.

A graveside service will be held at Floral Hills Cemetery (409 Filbert Road, Lynnwood, WA) on Monday, September 14th at 1:00.

Sailor Rest Your Oar