Retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Ross Eugene McKee, age 85 passed away peacefully on August 4th, 2022, in his home surrounded by family.
He was born May 6th, 1937, in Richmond, Indiana and grew up alongside his older brother Tom who was his best friend. At the age of 23, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. A decision that would not only turn into a 20-year career but would also lead him to meet the love of his life, a beautiful nurse by the name of Jean who cared for him at the Eglin Airforce Base in Okaloosa, Florida. The two married on October 24 th , 1961 and spent the next 60 years building a life filled with love.
Ross was well known in the town of Derby for the business he opened in 1995 called Ross Golf; a business that specialized in custom golf clubs. He was an avid golfer since the age of twelve and he thoroughly enjoyed playing the game and assisting customers in his shop for over 20 years.
Ross is preceded in death by both his parents Ralph and Mabel (Martin) McKee, brother Donald Bookwalter, sister Helen Shute, son Michael McKee and grandson Ian Waple.Those left to cherish his memories are his wife Jean McKee, daughter Karen (Pat) Waple, son Pat (Deanne) McKee, brother Thomas (Betty) McKee, grandchildren Jonathan Waple, Shaye (Nathan) Hurst, Miranda McKee and great grandchildren Gunner (7), Nora (4), Raelynn (6), Aaliyah (4), Knox (2), Riggin (7) and Derby (1) who were so fortunate to get to have their great PaPa as long as they did. Several nieces, nephew, friends, and golfing buddies will also miss him dearly.
Visitation will be Wednesday, August 10th from 6pm to 8pm with family present the entire time at Smith Family Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Service will be Thursday, August 11th at 10am also at Smith Family Mortuary Chapel 1415 N. Rock Rd. Derby, Kansas 67037. Military burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery. [In lieu of flowers] we ask that you donate to Home Health & Hospice of Kansas by mailing donations to 7607 E. Harry St. Wichita, KS 67207 or calling 316.869.0015 and ask for the bereavement coordinator. The care provided by this organization will never be forgotten.