IN MEMORIAM: Robert (D’Urzo) Ross, 74;

Master Mechanic Proud Of Family History

ONEONTA – Robert Paul (D’Urzo) Ross, 74, a master mechanic who worked in the family paving business with his son and grandsons, passed away peacefully in his home on Jan. 6, 2019, surrounded by his family.

Son of John and Elizabeth (D’Urzo) Ross, Robert was born Jan. 23, 1944, in the homestead on Franklin Mountain.  Growing up, he felt the family homestead overlooking the City of the Hills was on top of the world.

Robert was very proud of his Italian heritage. His grandfather, Basilio D’Urzo (Joseph Ross), immigrated from the village of Cerrisin, Calabria, Italy, settling in West Davenport, where he raised a large family.

Robert was very knowledgeable about trains and enjoyed talking to people about the Roundhouse and his father, John, who was a D&H hostler for over 50 years.

In his youth, Robert enjoyed socializing/talking about trucks at the lower deck beer joints.  Robert was “old school” and missed the Ma & Pa grocery stores. He often patronized Daddy Al’s and Stewarts for chili and coffee.

Robert married Jean Reed in 1963 and had three children. He was a master mechanic and worked as a heavy-equipment operator/truck driver for many years.  He worked alongside of his son and grandsons in their family paving business.  He also was a valued influence on the construction of the new Polar Bear Homemade Ice Cream & More.

He enjoyed working, whether it be baling hay on the family farm or building projects with his grandson, Matthew.

He is survived by his son Michael R. D’Urzo Ross (Heather); granddaughter Jessica (Kyle) Buel; grandson Matthew and his daughter Janette D’Urzo Ross; grandsons  Daniel Korenyik and Joseph (Clara) Korenyik; brother-in-laws Gerald (Anne) Reed, Roger (Christine) Reed and Steve (Salenda) Murphy, along with nieces, nephews and cousins from Canada, Western New York, Pennsylvania and Italy.

He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Albert & John, infant daughter Carol, wife Jean.

Robert requested a private family gathering; in celebration of his life, donations may be made to Catskill Area Hospice, Oneonta. Arrangements were made by Grummons Funeral Home.