Danny Warren Ross of Hermiston passed away on Nov. 29, 2024 at Good Shepherd Medical Center surrounded by his family at the age of 73.
He was born in Pendleton on Aug. 2, 1951 to Warren “Tex” Ross and Marilyn Marie Miller.
A proud Umatilla native and 1969 graduate of Umatilla High School, Danny led a life full of adventure and curiosity. He loved nature, spending time camping, backpacking, and capturing moments through his hobbyist photography. His albums are left rich with memories; Danny was always behind the camera, documenting his family’s life. A child of the ’60s, he embraced the era’s music and free-spirited culture, often sharing his love of vinyl records with his kids.
Danny spent much of his career managing the retail shop at his father’s landmark business, Ross Machine and Iron Works in Hermiston. He also worked at the family’s scrap yard and repaired small engines, retiring in 2010. His creativity was evident from a young age, building boats and auto engines. There was never a project too big to take on.
Danny’s adventurous spirit also led him on long-distance bicycle trips with his dear friend, Richard Waide. He was always yearning to find beauty in nature. He met his wife of 45 years, Susan, on one of his grandest adventures, traveling through Europe. He and Susan built their home at Hat Rock in 1982, where Danny delighted in caring for his garden, going on walks to watch the wildlife, and later feeding the deer he welcomed into his yard.
Danny was a character – goofy, curious, and often lost in his own world while tinkering in his shop or reflecting on memories. He was a familiar face at Java Junkies in Umatilla, where he often left the baristas smiling with his signature “You bet!” Danny faced life’s challenges with resilience, humor, and an appreciation for the simple joys of life.
He is survived by his wife, Susan; daughter, Heather (Chris Blackford) and their children, Elliott, Grace, and Claire; son, Andrew (Kire Barraza Ross); sisters, Dixie Benoit and Debbie Ross-Pena (Anthony); and stepmother, Juanita Ross. He cherished his family deeply and took great pride in their love and connection.
He was preceded in death by his father, Warren “Tex” Ross; his mother, Marilyn Marie Miller; his grandparents; dear friend, Bruce Eisele; and his beloved dog, Zeus.
A public service for Danny will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 at 1 p.m. at Burns Mortuary in Hermiston, followed by an open house from 3 to 6 p.m. at the home of Andrew and Kire Ross, 1337 S.W. Riverhill Drive, Hermiston. The family invites friends and loved ones to attend and share memories.
Danny will be cremated and laid to rest at Umatilla Cemetery near his father.
Donations can be made to the Eastern Oregon Humane Society in honor of his lifelong love for animals.
Condolences and flowers may be sent to Burns Mortuary in Hermiston.
