Gerald William Ross

Gerald William Ross, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of hard work, passion, and love. Born in 1950 in Hanford, California, Gerald grew up with a love for sports, excelling in athletics during his years at Hanford High School, where he graduated in 1968. He continued his education at the College of the Sequoias before embarking on a life filled with entrepreneurial spirit and adventure. In the 1970s, Gerald owned and operated Ross Automotive in Hanford, where he combined his love of cars with his strong work ethic. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Janet Willard. The two were married in December of 1979 and soon welcomed their son, Dominic, in 1981. Gerald had a passion for racing, competing in open-wheel dirt track events for decades. His enthusiasm for the sport extended to his family, as he proudly watched Dominic follow in his footsteps, racing mini sprints at Plaza Park Raceway in Visalia. Together, Gerald and Janet became co-owners of the Tulare Thunderbowl Raceway, a testament to their deep love for motor sports and the community surrounding it. Beyond racing, Gerald was an adventurer at heart. In 1983, he earned his pilot's license and took to the skies in his Cessna, embracing the thrill of flight. He was also an innovator, co-founding Gold Harvest Seed Company in Tulare with his father, Norman. Their ingenuity led to the development and patent of Plug Scrub, a terminal cleaner for truck trailers, boats, etc. In 2009, Gerald's family grew when his son, Dominic, married Brandi Crawford, welcoming a daughter-in-law into the family. The greatest joy of his later years came in 2016 when he became a grandfather to Dalton. Spending weekends together outdoors, Gerald treasured every moment with his grandson, passing on his love for cars, enjoying many car shows together. After a dedicated 30-year career with Applied Industrial Technologies, Gerald retired in 2020, looking forward to more time spent with family, enjoying racing, and working on new projects. Gerald's life was one of passion, dedication, and love whether at the racetrack or hanging out with friends and family telling jokes. He leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and kindness that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Janet; their son, Dominic, and daughter-in-law, Brandi; his cherished grandson, Dalton; twin sister, Carol Elam and husband Leonard; sister, Darlene Miller and husband Bob; many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever race on in the lives he touched. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 @ 1:30pm at New Life Church 2012 W Morton Ave, Porterville, California, to honor Gerald's memory and the incredible life he lived. Flowers and Memorial contributions to St Jude and/or New Life Church can be made in Gerald's Memory. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Gerald William Ross

April 2, 1950 - February 6, 2025