James F. Gross
DEERWOOD - James Francis Gross, 69, of Deerwood, formerly of St. Paul, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2008, of esophageal cancer at his home surrounded by family. He was born Feb. 15, 1939, in St. Paul to Conrad and Evelyn (Carr) Gross. After attending St. Thomas Military Academy he owned and operated Phillips 66, Anoka Aviation flight school and the Country Pump in Garrison. Jim had many interests including golf, flying, automobiles and cards with friends. He was an active member of the Garrison Commercial Club. Jim and his siblings were one of the original Wonder Bread model families.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Sandy Furey, Don and Linda (Mike) Peterson; stepson, Loren Whitney; a proud grandpa to, Jill (Rey) Garcia, Jessy Furey, Samantha and Austin Peterson; stepgrandchildren, Dillion and Cody Whitney; great-grandpa to Aleyah and Rohm Garcia; siblings, Jack (Jackie), Gene (Sharon), Tom (Vicki), Bob, Bill (Kathy) Gross, Patricia (Dick) Verling; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Conrad and Evelyn.
Visitation will be one hour prior to the 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2008, funeral service at Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home, Aitkin. Father Howard Eisel will officiate.