Ross Dunn

Ross R Dunn, age 74, of Maple Park IL, formerly of Elgin, passed away quietly into the arms of his Savior, Sunday, September 30, 2018, following a battle with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. In spite of his battles and changing quality of life, Ross’s heart was untroubled due to the constant care of his loved ones.
During Ross’s younger years he was fortunate to travel all over the world with his parents Ross Henry Dunn and Gertrude Dunn. After attending college in Chicago, and graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, he was stationed in Panama in 1969 while serving in the United States Army in 1969. Due to his father’s passing, Ross was given an early honorable discharge.
Upon his return to civilian life, Ross began working for the State of Illinois Public Aid where he was skilled in the placing of families. His passion for cars called to him and Ross was ready to get his hands dirty while working for various companies. His many years in sales brought him wonderful relationships with people from all walks of life. His knowledge of cars was astounding. His dedication to keeping not only his cars, but those of others, in pristine shape, was equally unparalleled. No one took more pride in his work, than Ross. After retiring, Ross set his sights on a unmistakable large, yellow vehicle , when he moved into the driver’s seat of a school bus. The students from Burlington Central found a friend in Ross, but were mindful to keep the bus neat and clean, just the way Ross wanted it.
Ross was blessed with 8 wonderful children (Leana, Lisa, James, Robert, Thomas, Tracy, Timothy, and Michael). You could always find Ross playing a game of “monster foot”, sledding, snowmobiling, boating, fishing/hunting, or a good game of backyard badminton with his children. Ross and his children had spent most every weekend at the family farm house, enjoying outdoor family time.
During Ross’s retiring years he was blessed with 9 grandchildren Kyle, Olivia, Madilynn, Connor, Colton, Ryan, Kate, Hailey and Luke. Ross would spend his time with his grandchildren by fishing, taking nature hikes, going on picnics, giving tractor rides, going for ice cream, going to a sporting events, or meticulously building a gingerbread house. He loved his time with his grandchildren. They kept him very busy!
In Ross’s retired years you could find him spending most of his time enjoying outdoor activities; whether it was fishing, mowing the lawn, taking care of his car, hunting or enjoying a long walks with his beloved dog Ashes, Ross’ hands were never idle. You could find him most Saturday nights at the Sycamore Speedway, not only as a driver, but also in the pits, elbow deep and stained with grease, while making much needed repairs. If ever there was a man who needed a day of rest, it was Ross. Sunday was reserved for family dinners and watching racing on the TV.
Ross had a kind soul and generous soul. If you were ever need, you could be sure to find Ross right at your side. He was so genuine and friendly, Ross could walk in a room full of strangers and walk out with a lifetime acquaintances. Ross’ was an extremely hard worker all his life. His steadfast and dedicated work ethic set an example for his children and family. You didn’t need four wheels to have a place in Ross’ heart, those with four legs were also more than welcome. Ross had a deep and abiding connection with all animals. His kind nature and gentle soul spoke volumes, while his loving hands cared for all of God’s creations. Ross was a simple man at heart, always most happy when he was surrounded the beauty around him. A simple man at heart, Ross could appreciate the stark beauty of watching a beautiful sunset while swinging on a porch swing, the rustling leaves of nearby trees and the comforting silence of the night that is covered in a blanket of stars. These relaxing moments were the ones he loved the most, and gave him time to quietly reflect on a life well lived. A quote by Linda Hogan may sum it up best, “There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story.”
He is survived by eight children: Leana (Rick) Mueller, Lisa (Steve) Collins, James (Jessica) Dunn, Robert (Lynda) Dunn, Thomas (Kristi) Dunn, Tracy (Al) Puralewski, Timothy Dunn and Michael Dunn; and his immediate grandchildren: Kyle, Madilynn, Olivia, Connor, Colton, Ryan, Kate, Hailey and Luke;
He is preceded in death by his parents, Ross Henry and Gertrude Dunn and his favorite four-legged companion, Ashes, a Dalmatian.
Following cremation, an intimate graveside service will be held at Blackberry Township Cemetery, Elburn, on Friday, October 5, 2018 at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Research: Alzheimer’s Association IL Chapter 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or Parkinson’s Foundation
200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131. Tributes may be forwarded to the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Following cremation, an intimate graveside service will be held at Blackberry Township Cemetery, Elburn, on Friday, October 5, 2018 at 2 p.m.