ORR, Rossell Anson
Sergeant, RCAF (retired)
January 21, 1924 ~ January 30, 2010
Ross passed away peacefully at the Comox Valley Seniors Village, with his wife and loved ones near. He is survived and deeply missed by his wife of 60 years, Jean; son Don (Nancy), daughter Kim Ramona (Les), daughter-in-law Carla (Jim), grandchildren Carrie, Steve, Dana, David and Barry; great grandchildren Kai and Katelyn; and many cousins and friends.
Ross was pre-deceased by his father and mother, George and Caroline Orr.
Ross was born and raised in Chilliwack, B.C. He grew up roaming the hills hiking and developing his love for airplanes. He was the first instructor to teach flying at the Chilliwack Flying Club. He joined the Air Force in 1942 and served his beloved country overseas in World War II as an Airframe Technician. In 1949 Ross met and married the love of his life, Jean. They raised two adopted children from babies and always had a place in their home for the many other extended family members (birth mothers, siblings, etc.) and Cindy, who became part of their extended family in later years. Upon retirement from the RCAF in 1970, Ross worked as a supervisor of cleaners at CFB Comox and Airport Elementary School for several years. His passions were his family, airplanes and music. From a young age Ross always loved and played music. While living in the Comox Valley he enjoyed performing for others on his many reed instruments and his Hammond organ. Ross was one of six original members of the CAMPA Big Band and he played in the Comox District Band for several years. He was also in bowling leagues, enjoyed model and remote-controlled airplanes, and was a member of the Comox Air Force Museum. Ross was a great storyteller and often shared jokes with friends and family. The twinkle in his bright blue eyes remained, even when his health deteriorated. All who knew him will miss his smiling face and gentle spirit.
Funeral for Ross Orr will be on Friday, February 26th, 2010 at the Living Word Reformed Episcopal Church, 4778 Island Highway North, Courtenay at 2:30 pm, Pastor Emeritus Bill Hedges officiating. A celebration of Ross' life will follow in the back room of the White Spot Restaurant, 2299 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay.