Robert 'Bob' Ross, 88

Robert "Bob" D. Ross, 88, passed away on Sept. 22, 2023, in Kalispell. He was born on July 7, 1935, in Kalispell.

Bob grew up with a deep connection to the forests of Northwest Montana. In high school he spent his summers working for the Forest Service clearing trails and manning lookouts. He believed the Forest Service was going to be his life's path.

At the age of 19 that path would change when he felt a strong calling into full-time ministry. He attended North Central Bible College, graduated in 1956, and married Roberta Cutsforth. Together, they embarked on their ministry journey, starting in a small church in Northern Wisconsin. Bob's ministry took him to Hungry Horse, Billings, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisc., and eventually back home to the Flathead Valley where he pastored Christian Center (now Canvas) for 22 years.

During their years of ministry Bob and Roberta traveled to Alaska, Canada, Africa, Guatemala, Finland, Brazil, Indonesia and Belgium to support the work of local missionaries.

Even after his retirement in 1998, Bob remained actively involved in supporting the local church and World Missions through writing, teaching and preaching. He was known as a man of integrity, dedicated to God, his family, and the people touched by his ministry. Bob was committed to the study and preaching of God's word while being approachable and willing to listen and learn from those around him. Bob had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed hiking, fishing, hunting, and woodworking. His love for reading made him a "life-long learner."

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Roberta Ross; his son, Ronald Ross (and Debbie); his daughter, Rachel Herbert (and Cliff); grandchildren, Breann Schulte (and Aaron), Nathan Ross (and Kristi), Brittany Libby (and Craig), Chaemous Herbert (and Ashley), Collin Ross (and Lindsey); and great-grandchildren, Joshua, Josiah, Trinity, Isaac Ross, Lilly Schulte, Tucker and Cedar Herbert. He is also survived by his sisters, Norma Fredrick and Betty Nolan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Esther Ross; his brother, Kenneth Ross; and his grandson, Justin Ross.

A celebration of life will be held at Canvas Church, 255 Summit Ridge Dr, Kalispell, MT 59901, on Wednesday, Sept. 27. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 10:30 a.m.

Contributions can be made to Assemblies of God World Missions (AGWM.org) or A Ray of Hope Homeless Shelter (arayofhopemontana.com).

The Johnson Gloschat Funeral Home in Kalispell is assisting the family with the arrangements.