Emmett R. Gross

Emmett R. Gross ’59, 82, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was the husband of Doris Gross. 

Emmett Gross, a beloved husband, father, and pappy, has passed away at the age of 82. He was known for his kindness, caring nature, and wealth of knowledge, which he freely shared with those around him. Emmett was born on February 26, 1941, in Hawley, Pennsylvania, to Archie and Helen Koerner. At 2 years old, Arthur and Helen Gross adopted him into their family.

Emmett attended Milton Hershey High School, where he bonded with his house parents, Lois and the late Calvin Peterman. He thought highly of them and remained friends with them until his passing.

Emmett’s passion for technology led him to pursue a career in data analysis. He worked diligently for many years at Blue Cross and Blue Shield, where he made significant contributions to the field. His expertise and attention to detail were well-respected by his colleagues and clients alike.

However, Emmett’s professional accomplishments were only a small part of who he was as a person. He had an adventurous spirit and loved going on road trips with his beloved wife, Doris Hebel Gross. Exploring new places and creating lasting memories together brought them great joy throughout their life together.

Music played an integral role in Emmett’s life. He had a beautiful singing voice and took great pleasure in singing at church. His melodic voice filled their home with warmth and tranquility. Additionally, Emmett found solace in the peacefulness of gardening. He spent countless hours tending to his beloved plants alongside his family, finding peace and fulfillment in nurturing nature’s creations.

Emmett cherished his family above all else. He is survived by his devoted wife Doris Hebel Gross, who stood by him through thick and thin over their many years of marriage. Their love was unwavering and served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Emmett is also survived by his children Robert Gross and Joelle Gross, granddaughter Hailey Mixell, grandson Hunter Mixell, as well as his sisters Marti and Charlotte, along with several neices and nephews. He was preceded in death by his birth parents, adopted parents, son Keith Gross, sisters Betty, Jeanette, Georgianne, Phyllis and Mandi as well as his brothers Kenneth, Bruce, and Charles.

Emmett will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His warm smile and gentle demeanor touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His generosity, wisdom, and compassion will forever be cherished in the hearts of his loved ones.

A memorial gathering will be held at Young’s Church, 7075 Wertzville Road, Mechanicsburg on March 2, 2024 starting at 11am. Service will be conducted at 12 noon and a luncheon afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations are made to Young’s Church or Master Gardeners Association of Perry County. His legacy will live on through the precious memories he created with his family and the lasting impact he made on all those fortunate enough to cross paths with him.

May he be embraced by eternal serenity.

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