Judy Ann Ross

Judy Ann Ross, 76 of Fargo, ND passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, June 23, 2015. She was in Portland, OR visiting family, including her beloved sister, Doris.

Judy was born July 13, 1938 to Charles and Catherine Gross on the family farm near Mylo, ND. She attended Ellsworth Country School and graduated from Bisbee High School. In 1958, Judy married Jerry Morken. They made their home in Rolla, North Dakota, where they raised 3 children. Judy worked at the Belcourt Hospital, Jewel Bearing Plant and the ASCS office.

In 1984, Judy started a new life with Speedy Ross. They lived in Fargo and eventually made their home in rural Kindred. They lived at “The Ranch” and helped raise a little boy named TJ. They loved living in the country and always kept their door open for neighbors, friends and family. Judy was able to share her love of music through their “Footprints” ministry. Speedy taught her how to play keyboard bass and her confidence blossomed as she sang and wrote songs. Over the next several years, this gospel group traveled the region spreading the word of God through music.

Following Speedy’s death in 1997, Judy moved to Fargo. Her apartment was a safe haven for her children and grandchildren, whether they were stopping in for an hour, a weekend or holiday. Judy enjoyed finding treasures at garage sales, watching NBA basketball and NASCAR racing.

She is survived by her son, Mike (Susan) Morken of Fargo; daughter, Cheri Johnson of Baldwin; grandchildren, Sarah Morken of Grand Forks, Scott Johnson of Mandan, Billy Bercier of Rugby, Matthew Morken of Fargo, Ricky Bercier of Wahpeton, Jessica Johnson of Lidgerwood, and Kelli Johnson of Grand Forks; four great-grandchildren Jayne Bercier, Addison Bercier, Kennedi Holo and Lucas Bercier. Judy is also survived by sister, Doris Orton of Portland, Oregon; brother, Russell (Hilda) Gross of Modesto, California and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by husband Virgil “Speedy” Ross, daughter Lisa Bercier, her parents, brothers Bud and Bob, and sister, Gladys.