Keith Ross

Keith Ross was born on June 25, 1954 in Aberdeen, Maryland. He was the oldest of 6 children born to the union of Charles and Ossie Mae Ross. As the son of an Army veteran, he had many fond memories and adventures growing up in Munich, Germany during his early years, Philadelphia, PA during his formative years, and Tacoma, WA thereafter. These years set the stage for many of the life-long friendships that still exist today. After graduating from Laughbon High School in 1972, he continued his education at Olympic College in Bremerton, WA. From 1975 to 1977 he served in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. After being honorably discharged, he relocated to Redding, CA where he attended Shasta College. He was well liked on campus and organized Shasta College’s boxing club and the Martin Luther King Recreation Center’s boxing club that became known to all around the city. He mentored many people and used boxing to teach them about life skills and discipline. After leaving Redding, he continued his education at San Diego State University with a focus in Public Administration. He furthered his passion for creating sports programs through the Boys and Girls Club in San Diego and joined the City of San Diego in 1983 where he began to work at the Municipal Gym in Balboa Park allowing him to organize teams and manage facilities – often receiving accolades due to his excellence in both areas. Around 1986 he transferred these skills to the hotel industry. He worked with the La Jolla Marriott Hotel for many years before transferring to the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta, GA, as a Security Supervisor. After returning to San Diego, he joined the City of San Diego again as a Parking Enforcement Officer, Land Development Investigator, and finally a Code Enforcement Officer. His experience and work ethic earned him many awards for his exemplary performances. Keith made the decision to give up the daily commute to San Diego and once again took his skills set and professionalism to the County of Riverside and later to Interwest Consulting Agency/Safebuilt via the City of Wildomar. He made many friends and mentored many individuals along his journey. Keith married Zondra, the love of his life in 1995 whom he honored and esteemed. They built a life filled with love, admiration, appreciation, and protection. They shared many funny memories that kept laughter in their relationship as they discussed world events, and analyzed movies and documentaries. His presence will be missed. Of this union, they welcomed two children, Ayanna and Aijaz. Keith was proud of his family and enjoyed his life as a dad following his kids to taekwondo, gymnastics, volleyball, soccer, baseball, football, basketball, and track. Some of his proudest moments were watching his daughter’s long strides in track and watching the development of her mathematical mind. He was additionally proud of his son’s natural giftedness in wrestling, handling of any ball, and philosophical observations about life. Keith was knowledgeable about the world, various cultures, and he wanted to visit Machu Picchu. He had a penchant for reading and loved to share his philosophical thoughts which also included his understanding of God's presence in his life. Because of his mother’s international culinary skills, Keith loved eating foods from around the world. He loved watching documentaries, sports, and catching up with old friends near and far. We will miss Keith’s quiet strength and presence. Keith was called home on February 15, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ossie Mae Ross, his brother Terrence Ross and sister Camilla Ross. His legacy continues through his wife, Zondra Anthony-Ross; daughter, Ayanna Ross; son, Aijaz Ross; his 3 brothers, Dr. Terryl Ross, Lance Ross (Lisa) and Cedric Ross (Sandra). He additionally leaves to cherish his memory, his aunt Iva Merritt; nieces and nephews Patrick, Angel, Darrius, CharDae, Brooks, and Jamari Ross. Keith will be missed by a host of family and dear friends. Funeral Service 03/05/2021 10:00 AM Valley Cremation Service 21901 Railroad Canyon Dr Lake Elsinore, CA 92532