Mark Thomas Gross

Mark Thomas Gross, of Jackson Center, passed away unexpectedly on May 14, 2021 at the age of 72.  As he left this world for the next, he was surrounded by his loving wife, Sherri, and his three children, Shelli, Ryan, and Jenna, all of whom adored him. 

Mark was born October 24, 1948, and grew up on his family farm with his three siblings, Alma (Gross) Huber, Dennis Gross, and Charlotte Gross.  He joins Alma and Dennis in Heaven, along with his parents, Harry and Johanna.  He graduated from Jackson Center High School in 1966.  After graduation, Mark joined the U.S. Army for two years before being honorably discharged in 1968. 

Little did Mark know that his life would change in the summer of 1971 with a trip to the Anna Homecoming, where he met the love of his life, Sherri Fullenkamp of Botkins.  Two years later, they would stand in front of their family and friends and dedicate their lives to each other.  Over the course of the following 12 years, they welcomed their three children, Shelli (Gene) Gooding, Ryan (Ginger) Gross, and Jenna (Joe) Majernik.  They have since welcomed six grandchildren, Ariana, Wesley, Mason, Avery, J.T., and Jackson, who were the light of his world.

Nothing made Mark happier than to spend time with his grandchildren, whether it was attending their sporting events, musicals, plays, or simply carving pumpkins with them each October for his birthday.  He was known to be goofy, laid-back, and full of laughter.  His grandchildren’s lives are forever changed because of the man that he was.  Mark was a devoted husband who would do anything for his wife and family, and continually put their needs ahead of his.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandpa, brother, son, son-in-law, uncle, godfather, and friend.

Mark enjoyed playing horseshoes, cornhole, and making animal noises to entertain his countless nieces and nephews.  He was a sportsman, a hunter, a farmer, and most of all, a trucker.  He recently retired after spending nearly 40 years providing for his family while on the road, all the while sacrificing his time so that he could support them.  Mark’s wife and children were always aware of how much he gave up for them, and knew that his heart was always with them even when his body wasn’t.  This still rings true even after his passing.  His heart will continue to be with them until they meet him in Heaven.

A Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 22, 2021 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Botkins.  Father Jedidiah Tritle will officiate.  Burial of Mark’s cremated remains will take place with military honors at a later date in Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery, Botkins.  Friends may call from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 21, 2021 at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Wapakoneta.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Rhine.  

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