Andrew Jackson Gross

Fletcher - Andrew (Jack) Gross, 91, beloved father, died Sunday, November 9, 2014, at his home. Born January 17, 1923, he was the son of Andrew and Victoria Gross. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Maye Gross, five sisters, Elisabeth, June, Lorraine, Grace, and Odell as well as two brothers, John and Bronson Gross. Born in Harlan KY, he was raised in the Masonic Home for widows and orphans in Louisville, KY. Retired from the Unites States Army, 32nd Squadron of the 82nd Airborne Division. He fought in North Africa, the battle of Kasserine Pass during Tunisia campaign of WWII. He also served in England, Italy, Korea, Greenland, and two tours in Vietnam. Jack received two Presidential citations from Franklin D. Roosevelt and a bronze star medal for meritorious achievement in ground operations against hostile forces in Vietnam. He was a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces "Green Beret" and a Jumpmaster. He is survived by three sons, Rick W. Gross (Kathy), Randy H. Gross and Rodney J. Gross, two grandchildren, Sam Beam and Amanda Laws and five great-grandchildren, Brandon Carnes, Aaron Laws, Emma, Hanna, and Luke Beam. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 PM on Thursday, November 20, 2014, at Calvary Episcopal Churchyard with Pastor Caleb Kurbis of Living Savior Lutheran Church officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to ABCCM the Veterans Restoration Quarters, 1329 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC 28805. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.