JEFFERSON – Neil A. Gross, 88, of Israel River Road, died Sunday morning, December 4, 2022, at Country Village Genesis Eldercare Center, Lancaster. His family was at his side.
Neil was born in East Richford, VT, on May 14, 1934, the son of Homer A. and Pearl E. (Perry) Gross. He was raised in Danville, VT, and Newry, ME, eventually moving to Jefferson in 1956 where he lived out the rest of his life.
Starting at a young age, Neil worked his entire life as a woodsman and truck driver. His passion in life was hunting and fishing, he especially enjoyed spending time at “Camp Rut” with family and friends. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and four-wheeling and was a big fan of wrestling. He attended most wrestling competitions that his children and grandchildren participated in.
All who knew Neil were well aware, that his favorite pastime was to sit on his front porch, drinking coffee, and visit with anyone who was wanting to stop by and strike up a conversation.
Neil served his community in many capacities. For many years he was a volunteer fireman for the Jefferson Fire Department, retiring as a Lieutenant. For a time, he was the Jefferson Road Agent, a Forest Fire Warden and he served on the Jefferson Planning Board and Board of Adjustments. He was also a member of the Grange.
Surviving family members include his children Bo Gross of Lancaster, Mark Gross (Line Host) of Jefferson, Melodie Stevens (Tim) and Terri Larcomb (Colin) of Jefferson; four sisters, Sandra Montgomery, Opal Bronson, Millie Murgida, Allison Childs; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife Grace (Smith) Gross; and brothers Malcolm, Douglas, Coleman, Walter “Doc”, and Calvin “Joe” Gross.
Visiting hours will be held Thursday, December 8, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Friday, December 9, at 2:00 PM, at the Jefferson Christian Church. Reverend Dean A. Stiles, pastor, will officiate. A private burial will follow in Forest Vale Cemetery, Jefferson.
Donation in lieu of flowers may be made in his memory to the Jefferson Fire Department.