OWENSVILLE — Bobby Gene Ross, 81, passed away Thursday Aug. 13, 2009 at home.

Born Sept. 17, 1927, he was the son of Francis Samuel and Callia LaVon (Pruitt) Ross.

Bobby was a navy veteran, serving on the U.S.S. Bristol D.D.859 during World War II. He received the victory medal, American Area Campaign Medal and the European Occupation Medal, He also served on the U.S.S. Hanson D.D. 832.

He was a lifetime member of the VFW, Eagles, American Legion and the National Street Rod Association as well as the Christian Church Disciples of Christ.

Bob enjoyed fishing, golfing and was quite knowledgeable about the Bible. In his younger days he enjoyed trapping mink and making guns. But his true passion was restoring antique cars and trucks and participating in car shows. Bob also had a deep love for his family and will be greatly missed.

He was an exceptional brick mason by trade.

Survivors include sons, Gary Ross of Orlando, Fla., Steve (Terri) Ross of Jeffersonville; daughters, Karen (Jim) Odom, and Jennifer (Terry) Rhinehart both of Mt. Carmel, Ill.; grandchildren, Kelly Robinson, Chris (Jaye) Ross, Steven Ross, Eric Ross, Lexi Ross, Kayce (Kurt) Wahl, Kory ( April) Wenderoth, Lacey, Kaylee, Whitney, Trevor and Luke Rhinehart; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Evelyn Mounts of Fort Branch; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bill; sisters, Vonda Wilson and Greta Matsel.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday Aug. 16 at Holders funeral home with the Rev. Bob Douglas officiating. Burial will be in the Owensville Cemetery with miliary rites conducted by American Legion Post 51 and VFW Post 2714.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home and from noon to service time on Sunday.