James W. Gross, of Mendota, formerly of Earlville, passed away August 30, 2022 at OSF Saint Anthony's Medical Center, Rockford.

James was born in Monroe, Michigan to Raymond and Nada (Middleton) Gross on October 19, 1951.

James was a 1970 graduate of Earlville High School. He served in the United States Navy for a brief time before he married Rhonda Bettner on September 5, 1972. James proudly worked as a member of the Chicago Local Carpenter's Union #272 for over 30 years.

He and Rhonda are parents to one son Christopher Gross of Mendota; and two daughters Shallen Gross of Mendota and Laurie Gross Adkins who preceded him in death on April 17, 2012. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Other survivors include two brothers Raymond (Doris) Gross of Corbin, Kentucky and Tracy Gross of Cookeville, Tennessee and two sisters Marsha Wallace of Middlesboro, Kentucky and Michelle Gross of Cawood, Kentucky. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother David and infant brothers Clark and Larry.

Even though James would have preferred a Viking funeral, his family has decided on other options instead. A Celebration of Life will be held at the north end of Lake Mendota on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota assisted the family.

Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com