Zane Gross Sr.

Zane Gross Sr. age 81, of Ashland, passed away Friday, April 2, 2021 at the Good Shepherd Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He was born April 8, 1939 in Martins Ferry, the son of the late Paul and Cora (Crawford) Gross. Zane was a 1958 graduate of Martins Ferry High School where he had been a star running back for the “Purple Riders”. He had been a resident of Ashland County since 1967. Zane had been employed with the Norfolk Southern Railroad as a track foreman for over 30 years before retiring in 2002. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church and the Ohio High School Athletic Association, he had been a football official for over 40 years. He also enjoyed coaching several youth sports over the years. He was a history buff, a model railroader, loved traveling and spending time with his family.

On February 6, 1958 Zane married Ruth L. (Rhodes) Gross who preceded him in death in 1997. Survivors include his son, Zane (Debbie) Gross Jr. of Ashland; his daughters, Karen (Mitch) Johnson of Ashland, Michelle (Bryan) Harris of Greenwich and Heather Culp of Elyria; daughter in-law, Sheri Gross of Lexington; brother in-law, Eddie VanDriest of Bailey Lakes; 10 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; along with several cousins and in-law’s.

In addition to his parents and wife, Ruth, Zane was preceded in death by his son, Paul Gross and sister, Shirley VanDriest.

Funeral services will be held at the Bethel Baptist Church on Friday, April 9, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor John Bouquet officiating. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, April 8, 2021 from 5:00 P.M. till 7:00 P.M. at the church and also one hour prior to the service at the church.

The family would like to thank the Good Shepherd for the wonderful care Zane received over the years he was a resident, especially Terry McQuillen. Memorial contributions may be made in Zane’s memory to the Good Shepherd Activity Fund 622 Center St. Ashland, Ohio 44805.

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