Craig Sydney John ROSS

Craig Sydney John Ross

October 4, 1939 – September 12, 2018

Craig was born in Rossland, BC.  He was predeceased by his father Craig Ross Sr, mother Viola Elizabeth Dudley (nee Koskimaki nee Ross), and beloved step-father Barton Dudley. He is survived by: His wife of 57 years Linda Langford Ross of Port Alberni. Brothers Clair (Anne) Ross and Dennis (Penny) Dudley of Kelowna, and David (Gail) Dudley of Castlegar.  Deeply missed by his children Randal Ross (Stephanie) of Calgary, Travis Ross (Vicki) of Smithers, and Jillian (David) DeShazer of Frederick, Maryland; Also his grandchildren, Brandi McPherson, Randi-Lee, Tyrell, Hailey and Emma Ross and 3 great grandchildren, Donavyn (his elbow-friend), Lincoln, and Callahan Clarke.

From an early age Craig developed a great love for music. He learned to play guitar and performed around the southern interior of BC.  He developed extraordinary musical skills across a range of styles; as well as writing and arranging songs, skills he would take with him and use throughout his life. Teen age sweethearts, Craig fell in love with Linda (Musgrave), and committed himself to months of learning to dance to win her affections. They married in 1961.  Craig worked at the Cominco smelter and had two sons born in Rossland.   Not long after, in pursuit of their love of music, Craig, Linda and their young family would relocate to Calgary, Alberta, where Linda joined Craig as a singer. They would give birth to their youngest child, daughter Jillian. Craig also worked as a professional musician, a bookkeeper, warehouse manager and school boiler maker.  In 2004, Craig and Linda retired to their adopted home in beautiful Port Alberni, where they would continue to play music and also in support of local charities and care institutions, quickly becoming a fixture of the Alberni Valley’s local music scene. He and Linda continued to play and sing together, in various bands and finally as the duo “Mr. Ross & the Boss” for the remainder of their 57 year marriage. It is to the musicians of the Valley that the family extends many thanks and prayers, for their years of friendship and many heartfelt condolences.

Craig was always a source of stability, humour, honesty and heartfelt advice among his friends and family.  He would always emphasize the importance of family bonds, and was fiercely protective of his family, including his brothers, with whom he always kept a close relationship.  He loved his dogs and trained them well. He was a man with a gruff exterior concealing a giant heart, sensitive soul, sharp wit, and a loud imagination.

Retaining the autonomy, individuality and integrity, Craig passed into the loving embrace of his maker on Wednesday, September 12th, 2018, in his own home and in the company of his family.  He vowed he would not leave his home except “feet first.” He kept this vow.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, September 20, 1018 at 1:00pm at Jericho Road Church, 5100 Tebo Ave, Port Alberni, British Columbia V9Y 5Y6