Columbus Grove, OH
John H Gross, age 71, passed away September 4, 2017, at The Ohio State University Medical Center. John was born January 20, 1946 in Lima, OH, to John A. and Ethel Argyle (Jackson) Gross. His father preceded him in death and his mother survives in Lima. On June 29, 1969 he married Brenda C. Wicker Gross who survives in Columbus Grove.
John was a 1964 graduate of Bath High School. He had worked at the Lima Ford Engine Plant as an electrician where he worked for 38 years from which he retired in 2006. John attended Rhodes State College where he earned a certificate in Paramedic and was also the first paramedic in Beaverdam. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served from 1964 until 1968 inVietnam. He was a lifetime member of the VFW #1275, member of the American Legion # 96, Moose Lodge #1533 in Lakeview, OH and the UAW Local #1219. John was a foster parent with Allen County and was on the Allen County Fairboard for more than 35 years. John was also a member of the Hix-Chix Square Dance club in Maysville. He played Santa for 35 years in and around the Lima area and was Beaverdam’s official Santa. John was known for his sense of humor and his silly jokes. He enjoyed camping, morning coffee at McDonald’s with the guys and most of all spending time with his family and friends. John was a good provider, husband, father and he truly loved his grandchildren. He will be remembered as being a giving person and helping anyone who needed it.
In addition to his wife, John is survived by his children: John “Chris” (Amanda) Gross of Powell, OH, Melissa (Marty) Gantz of Medway, OH and Monica (Andy) Beck of Columbus Grove, OH, 5 grandchildren: Tucker and Kenzie Gantz, Drew, Alissa and Cora Beck, 2 brothers: Bill (Sandy) Gross of Alliance, OH and Mike (Martha) Gross of Hume, OH. He was preceded in death by a sister, Cheryl Cline.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at 11:00 am at the CHILES-LAMAN FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, EASTSIDE CHAPEL. Officiating the service will be Rev. Bryan Bucher. Burial will be in Preston Cemetery in Alger following the service.
Friends may call on Friday from 4-8 pm and one hour prior to services on Saturday at the EASTSIDE CHAPEL. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army. Condolences may be expressed at chiles-lamanfh.com