Dennie R. Ross

Dennie R. Ross, age 88, passed away on November 2, 2024, in Rockford, Illinois, where they had recently moved from Shelton, WA. Born in a sod house in rural Nebraska on October 1, 1936, Dennie was the son of Roscoe R. Ross and Goldie (Smith) Ross. His early years took him across Idaho and Oregon before his family settled in Ellensburg, Washington, when he was nine years old. Dennie graduated from Ellensburg High School and went on to earn both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education from Central Washington University, where he met and married the love of his life, Avis Schmuck, in 1957.

Dennie's career in education spanned several decades and communities. He began by teaching at Garrison Junior High in Walla Walla, Washington, before moving into administrative roles. He served as an Activity Director in Ellensburg and as a principal in Lyle, Washington, before taking on a 11-year tenure as principal of Kittitas High School. There, Dennie helped organize community events, including an annual Fourth of July picnic and games in the park, with support from the local Lions Club. He also enjoyed playing successfully in Ellensburg City tennis tournaments. He later became vice-principal of Shelton High School, where he played an instrumental role in establishing an alternative high school program. Dennie retired from Shelton School District in 1989, leaving a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. Retirement didn't slow him down. Dennie served as a member, then chairman, of the Shelton Board of Equalization. He also took up bowling, achieving an impressive three perfect 300 games and earning a plaque from the United States Bowling Congress in 2023 for competing in 30 national tournaments. An avid lover of the water, Dennie became a Life Member and Past Commodore of the Shelton Yacht Club. Another of his great passions was collecting Hot Wheels cars. He could often be found with other enthusiasts outside Walmart and Target, waiting for new releases. His collection filled an entire wall in his home and represented just a portion of his prized finds. He enjoyed traveling the country for bowling tournaments, cruising with the Yacht Club, and hunting down elusive Hot Wheels models with Avis by his side.

Dennie was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Leo and Jimmie Ross, and Pauline Diefenbach. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Avis Ross; brother Lanney Ross of Cheyenne, WY; his children, Randy (Laura) Ross of Rockton, IL; Candy (Christopher) Harris of Rancho Mirage, CA; Carl Ross of Ellensburg, WA; three grandchildren, Nova, Andy, and Melissa (Nick); and three great-grandchildren, Koby, Wyatt, and Westin. Dennie's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories he created.

No services are currently scheduled.