William Carter Ross, “Bill,” a long-time resident of Great Barrington, died February 22, 2015 at the age of 87.
One of eight children and father of nine, Bill was born and raised in Pittsfield where he attended public schools and met the love of his life, Elizabeth, “Betty,” Elworthy whom he married in 1948.
As a young man he served in WWII as a Navy Fireman 1st Class in the Pacific and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, American Area Medal, and Asiatic-Pacific Area Medal (1 Star). He worked for the former New England Telephone & Telegraph and Bell Atlantic companies as a technician before retiring in 1989 after 36 years of service. In his retirement, he enjoyed fishing, spending time with his family, and driving cars for local dealerships. He epitomized hard work in all that he did.
Bill loved his family and always enjoyed “a good party,” especially a family wedding, when everyone could be together. He took special pride in shining up his automobiles and maintaining his home, and the grass was never too short for another mow. He loved music, particularly Big Band and Sinatra, and was known to belt out a melody while taking liberty with the lyrics and to spontaneously dance. His mashed potatoes were second to none. His wisdom, experience, and humor will be greatly missed.
Bill is survived by his wife, Betty Ross of Pittsfield (formerly of Great Barrington); sons Robert (wife Mary), Steven (wife Christine), Thomas (wife Karen), James (wife Jean), and William (wife Beth); daughters Lyn Petricca (husband Robert), Laurie Student (husband Bernard), and Amy Comcowich (husband Gregory); grandchildren Stephanie (Ross) Mason, Jason Ross, Kate (Ross) Chennells, Daniel Ross, Timothy and Tristan Petricca, Tracey, Eric and Brian Ross, Justin and Haley Ross, Ellen and James Ross, Ethan and Sophie Student, and Anne and Ross Comcowich; great-grandchildren Madeline and Finn Mason, and Ava Ross; sisters Betsy Culver Byron of St. Johnsbury, Vt., Joan Rook of East Greenwich, R.I., and Nancy Ross of New Britain, Conn.; brother Richard Ross of Rego Park, N.Y.
Bill was predeceased by his son Jonathan Ross as well as brothers Harold and Duane Ross, and sister Eleanor Culver.
Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 27, 2015 at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church, 213 Main St., Great Barrington, conducted by Rev. William P. Murphy, pastor.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 26 from 4-7 p.m. at FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME in Great Barrington.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Stroke Association through FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230 or at www.stroke.org/ways-give/donate. To send remembrances to his family go to www.finnertyandstevens.com.
The family wishes to thank the many caregivers who tended to Bill’s needs during his recent period of deteriorating health. Your kindness, humor and grace are truly appreciated.
