CRAWFORDSVILLE, IN
Elton Chenoweth Ross, age 95, passed away on April 1, 2020 in Crawfordsville, IN. Born near Hope, IN to Joseph Ray and Elva (Taylor) Ross, he attended Hope schools before they moved to Columbus, where his parents were school teachers for many years.
Elton graduated from Columbus High School in 1943 and was immediately entered into the military draft, serving in Co. D, 48th Tank Battalion, 14th Armored Division in the Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns. After six weeks in hospital due to a tank injury, he rejoined his unit at Niederbetschdorf, Alsace in the midst of the Battle of Hatten-Rittershoffen. He received many WWII decorations, including The Order of the Purple Heart, Bronze Stars, and the Knight of the Legion of Honor medal from the French government in recognition of service to France and Western Europe.
He graduated with a BSME ’50 from Purdue University, where he met his future wife, Marguerite. Elton was employed at Cummins Engine Co., and then moved to Crawfordsville in 1953 to work at Hoosier Crown Corporation as a mechanical engineer/manager for 38 years. Elton and Marge were active in many community organizations, including the First United Methodist Church for 67 years, and they delivered Meals On Wheels together for more than 20 years. Also, Boy Scouts of America as a Scoutmaster and serving on the district level, Crawfordsville Kiwanis Club, the Old Jail Museum board of directors, and the Knights Templar of Indiana Masonry for 50 years. After retirement, they enjoyed travel throughout the United States, attending annual U.S. Army reunions of the 14th Armored Division Association.
Elton is survived by his wife of 69 years, Marguerite (Fletcher) Ross, and children Marilyn Smith, Brad Ross, Stephen Ross (Joe Kenyon) and Jennifer (Michael) Taxman, and grandchildren Max Chenoweth Taxman and Isabel Honor Taxman. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Malcolm, Bernard and Curtis.
A private graveside service was held in Crawfordsville last year. A public memorial service will be announced at a future date.
