Kevin J.M. Gross

July 24, 2017

Gross, Kevin J.M., age 53, of Dunedin, passed peacefully on July 24 with his dear sister, Kathy, at his side. He dealt with his terminal illness on his own terms and demonstrated his strong convictions to his family and friends. A son of a U.S. Air Force career father and a pediatric RN mother, he proudly completed more than 30 years as a driver for over-the-road trucking, including significant time handling hazardous materials, all without incident, while maintaining a remarkable safety record. When he became ill he retired from the work team at Kenan Advantage Distech, where he made frequent hazmat deliveries from Virginia to the Carolinas, as well as Florida. His military family upbringing took him from his birthplace in Anchorage, AK to New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey as he grew into an accomplished hunter, especially for prized white tail deer. After moving to Florida in 2014 he set his foundation of life there with his mom and sister, living just around the corner from both. He was a child of his times with loves for southern rock and country music, tattoos and fast motorcycles, as well as embracing stand up comedy entertainment, often retelling jokes and routines heard on satellite radio while trucking down the road. His closeness to family and dear friends in central Pennsylvania culminated with a celebration of life visit there just weeks before his passing. The event was defined by the love of his sister and his “best, best-est” friend since childhood, Kim Long. While Kevin planned for no services after passing, all those who knew him understood his wishes and joined the event to ensure happy, special memories for all. Kevin’s father, Arnold E. Gross, preceded him in passing. Kevin is survived by his mother, Alice Oberman of Dunedin, in addition to his sister, Kathy (Gary Grayshaw), and his only brother, Kristopher E. Gross of Atlantic City, NJ. Also surviving are a niece, Tonya Miller, and a great-niece, Makayla Miller, both of Boiling Springs, PA. He also was known as “Uncle Kevin” to the children of his closest friends, Kim and Tom Long of New Cumberland, PA and Brian and Angi Mose of Dillsburg, PA. Sophie Long, Tessa Long, KateLynn Mose, Nathan Mose and Breanna Mose all have confirmed their love for him, along with their parents. His faithful “putz” dog, Peanut, now enjoys living with his sister, Kathy. Memorials may be posted via www.mossfeaster.com or on his Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Kevin are requested to Suncoast Hospice via donation online to: http://suncoasthospice.org/online-donations/ or by check payable to: Suncoast Hospice, 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760. Cards and other remembrances may be directed to his sister, Kathy, of Dunedin.