Julie Anne Ross

As her family and friends can surely attest, Julie Anne Ross truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and no matter what she faced she did so with a quiet strength that was such an inspiration. Nothing brought Julie Anne greater joy than spending time with her loved ones no matter how simple the moments. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve those around her, and she was a shining example of generosity and selflessness. Deeply loved, Julie Anne will be forever missed by those who knew her best.

The decade of the 1940s was a trying decade for the United States and the rest of the globe as WWII raged on. Countless young brave men and women fought in service to their country, and those who remained stateside faced rationing, supported the war effort, and clung to their radios for the latest news of the day. It was during this tumultuous time that Robert and Martha Ross of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first child. On March 5, 1942, their wait was over, and they welcomed their daughter, who they named Julie Anne, into the world.

Growing up, Julie Anne was a typical young girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised alongside her two younger brothers, Tom and Dan. Julie Anne’s father worked at Michigan Bell while her mother worked at Knape and Vogt. From a young age, Julie Anne was a social butterfly. As a teenager, she met and grew close to Karen (Martin) Koster, who would become a lifelong friend. Julie Anne’s first job was at the Rexall Drugstore. She attended local schools and graduated from Creston High School, ready to move on to bigger and better things.

All who knew Julie Anne can certainly agree that, of all the things she loved in life, she treasured her loved ones above all else. Not long after high school, she went on to marry Gordon Slater. Together, Julie Anne and Gordon welcomed their three children, Kim, Jim, and Tim, into their hearts and home. She thrived in her role as a mother and dedicated herself to raising her children and caring for her home. Julie Anne rarely missed a sporting or school event, and she was her children’s biggest supporter. Gordon’s career led the Slater family away from Michigan, and after several moves, eventually they settled down in Orange Park, Florida, though they often vacationed in Michigan to visit family. Julie Anne and Gordon were always grateful for the children they shared. Later in life, she was overjoyed to become a grandmother and even a great-grandmother as well. Julie Anne adored her grandchildren and doted on them whenever she could. She always considered herself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

Throughout her life, Julie Anne enjoyed socializing and building a strong friend group. While living in Orange Park, she was very active in the Women’s Sorority. In Atlanta Georgia, Julie Anne was able to let her outgoing personality shine in her job as the social director at the Elks Lodge. She loved to serve others and see those around her happy, so the job was a natural fit for her. Julie Anne loved her time working in the Georgia school district, where she was able to nurture and enjoy being around children everyday. Julie Anne often said that Atlanta was her favorite place to live. Every Fourth of July the extended family would gather at the cottage on Central Lake. Julie Anne valued this special time, and the family cottage was always near and dear to her heart.

Never one to sit still for long, Julie Anne pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She was an avid card player who enjoyed bridge, euchre, and cribbage, and she would often enjoy time at the casino. Julie Anne liked tennis and country music. Sunday night was always spent with family, and they would have a special dinner, game night, and a Disney movie. Julie Anne loved movies, especially the Hallmark Channel. Christmas was her favorite time of the year, and she enjoyed decorating and spreading holiday cheer.

When reflecting on the life of Julie Anne Ross, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her family. Her insatiable zest for life and her sense of humor brought a spark to every room she walked into. A mother, grandmother, and active member of her community, Julie Anne was beloved by many and a friend to all. She was generous and selfless, touching the lives of so many others in such a special way. Though she will be dearly missed, Julie Anne leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Julie Anne (Slater) Ross of Kalamazoo and formerly of Grand Rapids died on Saturday, December 16, 2023. Julie Anne’s family includes her 3 children: Kim (Tancy) Maldonado, Jim Slater and Tim (Kristen) Slater; 8 grandchildren: Jarrett, Kevin, Axel, Zac, Morgan, Elle, Reese, Thomas; 3 great grandchildren; 2 brothers: Dan (Jan) Ross and Tom (Vickie) Ross. Cremation has taken place and the family is having a small private event to honor her life. Graveside service will take place summertime 2024 in Grand Rapids, 1105 Knapp Street NE. A celebration of her life will occur for all family and friends at the family cottage in Central Lake this summer, date and time TBD. Visit Julie Anne’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos and sign her guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to the Narcolepsy Foundation. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900