Loving wife and mother, hospital volunteer

Ruth Eleanor Gross, a resident of Claremont for more than 50 years, died peacefully on May 21 at the age of 96.

Born Ruth Eleanor Cowguill on October 22, 1921 in Fairfield, Iowa, she was the third child of Jess and Hazel Moorman Cowguill. Raised on the family farm in Packwood, Iowa, she graduated from Parsons College in Fairfield and taught school briefly before marrying her husband Charles Gross on December 24, 1942.

After World War II, Ruth and Charles returned to Iowa and worked for the Maytag Company in Newton, Iowa. In 1955 the couple welcomed their first child, Patti. A son, Jon, was born in 1957. After the birth of her children she dedicated her time to child raising and supporting her husband’s career. Wherever they lived, San Diego, Beloit, Wisconsin, or finally Claremont, she created a home for her family.

Mrs. Gross volunteered at Pomona Valley Hospital, enjoyed growing roses, participating in many bridge clubs and playing golf. She was also an active member of Claremont Presbyterian Church for many years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Charles; son Jon; son-in-law Lee Reynolds; and sisters Margaret Brust and Mary Clark. 

She is survived by her daughter Patti Reynolds; granddaughter Meghann Reynolds; brother Jay Cowguill; sister-in-law Mary Cowguill; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Mt. San Antonio Gardens Homeship Fund at msagardens.org/giving, or to a favorite charity in honor of Ruth Gross.