Richard Floyd Ross Sr.

Richard Floyd Ross was a man who lived a full and adventurous life, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 in Puyallup, WA, on August 8, 2024. Born in McKeesport, PA, on April 12, 1934, to Helen Tombrosky and Floyd Ross, Richard's life was one of service, exploration, and dedication to those he loved.

Richard’s journey began in the small town of McKeesport, where as a young boy, he took on various jobs that shaped his hardworking nature. From setting pins in the local bowling alley to caddying at a local golf course, and even working in a steel mill.  Richard was never afraid of a challenge. It was during these formative years that Richard realized he was destined for something more leading him to enlist in the U.S. Air Force in July 1954.

His military career spanned over two decades beginning with basic training at Sampson AFB in New York, and taking him across the United States, Korea and Greenland. Richard’s first duty station was at Duluth Air Force Base in Minnesota where he met his first love, Julie Saatela. They married on February 15, 1958 and soon welcomed four children; Rick, Jack, Laura, and Jimmy. Together they experienced the life of a military family, moving frequently and exploring almost every corner of the United States—from Anchorage, Alaska to Tampa, Florida, and eventually Tacoma, Washington.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1975, Richard continued his commitment to public service by starting a new career with the U.S. Postal Service where he worked for 20 years as a repair technician. His love for tinkering with machines and computers led him to a later role at Circuit City, and eventually as an Online Test Administrator at Tacoma Community College—a job that brought him great joy.

In the early 1990s, Richard found love again with Kim Bowser. They married on August 30, 1994, and together they embarked on a new chapter filled with travel and adventure. Alongside Kim’s daughter Anita, and his best friend Wayne Bower, Wayne’s wife Lena and their daughter Leilani they explored the world, visiting places like New York, Hawaii, Mexico, China, Australia, Italy, Africa, and countless destinations across the United States. Their shared passion for travel was a testament to Richard’s enduring spirit of curiosity and discovery.

Richard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who was deeply loved by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Julie, his son Rick, and his beloved Kim. Richard is survived by his children Jack (Kathy), Laura Winge (Jerry), and James (Rosanna), as well as his grandchildren Gregory Schuy, Shane Winge, Eric Winge, Alex Ross, and Carson Ross. He also leaves behind his brothers Frank Krznaric of San Diego, CA, and James Krznaric of McKeesport, PA.

Richard’s life was a testament to perseverance, love, and a relentless pursuit of the better things in life. His legacy will live on through the memories he created with his family and the countless lives he touched throughout his extraordinary journey. Today we celebrate the life of a man who truly made the most of every moment.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held:

Tuesday August 27th at 11am at Power’s Funeral Home.

253-845-0536.

320 West Pioneer Way, Puyallup, WA 98372

Dress will be casual we request light and bright colors be worn.  Be prepared to tell your best story about Richard.