Obituaries

Frederick (Fred) Ross, Jr., age 85, a lifelong resident of Scranton, passed away Wednesday at Gino Merli Veteran Center in Scranton, after an illness. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Barbara L. (Mainwaring) Ross on January 11, 2008, after serving as her selfless caregiver for nearly two decades prior to her death.
Born in Scranton on June 3, 1935, and son of the late Frederick, Sr. and Margaret (Reed) Ross, Fred was a graduate of the former Scranton Technical High School, Class of 1953. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army before the Army Reserves and an honorable discharge in 1962.
First working in the warehouse of the former A&P in South Scranton, he then spent many years with Florey’s Plumbing Supply Co. before retiring from DeSavino and Sons.
A lifelong sports fan, Fred loved his N.Y. Giants, Boston Red Sox and Penn State Nittany Lions, and an avid golfer, he was a longtime member of the W.S. church golf league and a frequent at the former Scranton muni. golf course. He was also a local league bowler, earning several trophies and awards throughout the years for his play.
Above all else, “Saint Freddy” would do anything for anyone in need. An active volunteer for Meals on Wheels and Telespond Senior Services, he was also awarded by the American Red Cross for donating over five gallons of blood. He was also a singer in the Wally Gordon Community Singers for many years.
Humble, kind and humorous, his infectious smile will never be forgotten.
Also a pillar of the St. Patrick’s Church Parish community, Fred had served the church in just about every capacity from self-taught organist in the church choir to being a member of the Society of the Faithful.
He is survived by his loving family, children Frederick Richard Ross of Jermyn, Tracy Ann Sallo and husband Peter of Dickson City and Mary Theresa Tellip and husband Gregory of Scott Twp.; four grandchildren, Joseph and Tori Sallo, Samantha Tellip and Jacqueline Yorty and husband Matt; nieces and nephews; and his longtime companion, Jeanne Palumbo.
An infant daughter, Kelly Ross; and brothers, Joseph, Eugene, Edward and Paul Ross also preceded him in death.
His family would like to thank the health care staff of Gino Merli Veterans Center for their care and compassion throughout Fred’s stay.
Funeral service will begin on Saturday at 10:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial at Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel, 1605 Oram Street in West Scranton. Burial with military honors by the AMVETS Honor Guard will follow at the Cathedral Cemetery. Family and friends may pay their respects on Saturday from 9:00 AM until Mass at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made in Fred’s name to the American Red Cross – Southeastern Pennsylvania Region c/o 2221 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 North Main Avenue, Scranton.