Leroy Gross

LeRoy Gross passed away on Oct. 21, 2023, at Langemo Memory Care in Billings. LeRoy was born on May 28, 1932, in Ashley, North Dakota, to Jacob and Lydia (Schock) Gross. He grew up on the family farm in North Dakota and enjoyed both the chores and the adventures. LeRoy met Gertrude Martz in 1954 and they were married in December of the same year. They would have celebrated 69 years together in December of this year! From this union came a son, Troy, and two daughters, Claudia, and Lore. LeRoy and Gertrude raised their family in a home they built in 1960, and they resided there until moving into assisted living in 2021.

LeRoy joined the United Association Plumbers Local 30 - Billings in 1956 and retired in 1992. During his career as a plumber, LeRoy traveled throughout Montana and had a hand in many major commercial buildings, mentoring several future plumbers! He was always willing to help family, friends and neighbors with their plumbing projects. LeRoy worked hard his entire life and was a great provider for his family. His kids all agree that their dad led by example and instilled in them valuable life lessons, which they are grateful for.

LeRoy also enjoyed many things outside of work. He loved camping, fishing, playing cards, playing pool at the Elks Club, woodworking, attending high school sports with Gertrude, the holidays with family and friends, and taking some time for travel along the way. In 1978, LeRoy and Gertrude purchased land near Roberts, enjoying time there together. He and his son Troy raised red Angus cattle with the T\L brand.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Marvin and sister-in-law Violet Gross; his nephew, Tim Schock; and his brother-in-law, Marvin Schock.

LeRoy is survived by his wife, Gertrude; his sisters, Fern Schock, Janice Gross (Larry); his children, Troy Gross (Cheryl), Claudia Decker (John), Lore Knudson (Dave); eight grandchildren, Katrina Bacon (Robby), Karli Gross (Tyler Lynch), Nathan Scribner (Nichole), Aharon Scribner (Kindra), Adam Decker (Amy), Laura Rottrup (Caden), Christina Duray (Matt), Rhonda Roberts (Kelly); 16 great-grandchildren and one more on the way; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of LeRoy’s life will be at 10 in the morning on Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Peace Lutheran Church, 1301 Avenue D in Billings, where LeRoy and Gertrude have been members since 1956. There will be a reception at the church following the service. LeRoy will be interred at the Roberts Cemetery at a later date.

If desired, please consider a memorial to St. John’s United Memory Care or Hospice Care, or a charity of your choice.