Melinda Ann (Bauman) Ross passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday May 2, 2024 at the age of 78. She was born in Corpus Cristi, Texas on Sept. 13, 1945 to Virginia and Edward Bauman. She attended Holy Rosary High School where she was in the National Honor Society, Debate Team and a Cheerleader. She graduated with Honors and was awarded a full scholarship. She met her husband, Robert J. Ross, on a blind date and married him on December 2, 1965, sharing 57 years of love with him.

She lived for her family, always supporting her children. Along the way she was a Girl Scout Leader and Cub Scout Den Mother, involved in the school PTO, and Canal Winchester High School Music Boosters. Melinda was involved in OCCL and volunteered at Canal Winchester Food Pantry. She enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren participate in sports, Marching band/Orchestra and Choir. She always made sure every family/friend gathering was memorable. She loved entertaining and was legendary with her Christmas cookies.

Melinda enjoyed trips to the ocean, camping, reading, traveling, and trips to the casino. She was an avid Ohio State Football fan, and was an officer of the American Legion Auxiliary. She provided child care for 42 years.

She was proceeded in death by parents, Virgina and Edward Bauman; brother, Gary Bauman. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert J. Ross; children, Dayna (Terry) Rhea, Carrie Readnour, and Tony (Leanne) Ross; her siblings, Barbara Zizek, Craig (Virginia) Bauman, Jeanette (Dean) Dubois; and sister-in-law, Sharon Bauman; 7 grandchildren: Logan (Casey), Amanda, Cody, Reagan, Maggie, Katherine and Clara; 2 great grandchildren, Kaine and Kinsley; her cousins, Lynn and Michelle; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 5684 Groveport Rd., Groveport, Ohio 43125, and will be laid to rest at Lithopolis Cemetary, 4365 Cedar Hill Rd NW, Lithopolis Ohio 43136. There will be a luncheon served at St. Mary Catholic Church following the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Arthritis Foundation at arthritis.org in Melinda's name.