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Director Bill Ross Passes

William H. Bill Ross of Port Washington passed away at his home on Tuesday July 19 2011 after a brief fight with cancer. He was 67 years old. Bill was born in Syracuse NY son of Francis Ross and Erika Rosteck Ross. In December of 1965 Bill married Lonie Wohlert in Wadena MN. He graduated college in 1965 from St. Cloud State University with a Bachelors of Science in Music. Bill furthered his education by earning a Master's Degree at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant MI. He taught music in Montrose MI and Oconto WI before coming to Port Washington in 1974. Bill was the Vocal Music Director at Port Washington High School directing all the choirs and also directed the High School musicals and the Port Washington Summer Theater musicals. Bill was also the choir Director at Marquette University along with multiple professional commitments throughout the state. Bill will be remembered as a true friend and mentor who was dedicated to the success of his many students. He was a member of Crossroads Presbyterian in Mequon and Immanuel Presbyterian in Milwaukee where he sang in the church choirs. He also was an usher at the Milwaukee Repertory Theater and was a guide at the Port Washington Light Station. Bill is survived by his wife Lonie of Port Washington daughter Erika (Michael) Spitz of Mequon and son Andrew (fiance Sara Hofer) Ross of Madison. He is a loving Papa to Emma Abigail and David Spitz. He is further survived by nephews other relatives and many many friends. A memorial gathering will be held on Friday July 22nd from 4-7PM at the Eernisse Funeral Home 1600 W. Grand Ave in Port Washington. A worship service celebrating Bills' life will be held on Saturday July 23rd at 10 AM at Immanuel Presbyterian Church 1100 N. Astor St. in Milwaukee.

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