Obituary of Ross Karlson

October 4, 1935 – July 7, 2020 Surrounded by adoring family, at his heavenly cottage, Ross Karlson, in his 85th year, passed away peacefully. Predeceased by his lifetime love, Marilyn Karlson, a mere 89 days earlier. Ross and Marilyn summarized their 61-year marriage declaring, “true love is finding your soulmate in your best friend.” Ross leaves behind his cherished children: Linda Karlson, Tory and Mary Ellyn Karlson, Jill Karlson and Steve Stacey; treasured grandchildren: Kevyn Dietz, Michael Dietz, Ross Karlson Jr., Sydney Karlson, Erik Hirsch, Matthew Hirsch and Emma Hirsch. Also survived by his beloved 93-year-old sister, Loreen Baker and her children: Wendy and Doug McGrath, Murray and Marie Isobelle Baker and David Baker; nieces, nephews and kin near and far. Predeceased by his stoic parents, Knute and Francis Karlson; brother-in-law, Bruce Baker; and nephew, Carl Baker. Ross genuinely embraced all with love at every opportunity. A dignified, traditional gentleman, Ross’s friendships and associations reached far and wide. A long-standing member of the London Hunt and Country Club, past President and Director of the London & District Construction Association, past Director of the Ontario Road Builders’ Association and past Senior Vice President of Riverside Construction and TCG Materials Limited. A humble man of exceptional talent, no matter the trade, Ross’s knowledge seemed endless. His Architectural Engineering Degree from Ryerson University displayed well whenever decking or flagstone stairways were artistically constructed, with no need to draft. Ross devoured all sports with an endless appetite. A lover of every sport and a master of some, broken noses were just a part of the game of squash – good times! A fierce competitor, Ross held his London South Collegiate Institute football memories close to his heart. A third baseman in the London Minor League Baseball system, Ross impressed upon all who had ears, what a life-altering impact exceptional coaches have on their athletes. Ross extends a special note of gratitude to Joe Bechard for being that extraordinary coach of high impact. Ross’s career in the construction industry began with a shovel and workman’s wages. Thirty-five years of devotion and hard work earned him the eventual standing of Senior Vice President for Riverside Construction and TCG Materials Limited. At age 55 Ross retired and put his considerable skill sets to work assisting his son, Tory Karlson, to establish Ronson Paving & Construction, awarded Asphalt Paving Company of the Year 2020 by the London Chamber of Commerce. Ross was a man of old school integrity, a determined traditionalist. His hand shake gave every soul a friend. A brave and dependable man of strong and solid conviction, Ross lived a Christian life and humbly led by remarkable example; quietly declaring Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour. Ross Karlson is a giant to his family. A patriarch that was dignified, protective, dependable, wise and compassionate. We thank him for providing a family cottage on the shores of Lake Huron where 30 years of love, laughter and joy abounded under the wings of two lovebirds. God bless you, our courageous hero. Thank you Ross, for being an absolute blessing to your family and your fellows. To avoid unnecessary pandemic exposure, there will be a private family memorial service held at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Ross are asked to consider Mission Services of London. “Preserve your memories. They’re all that’s left you.” ~ Simon and Garfunkel