Long-time Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury enthusiasts, fans, dealers, and employees might remember Ross Roberts, who served for nearly four decades in various sales and marketing roles at the automaker starting in 1962 and ending in 1999, upon his retirement after 37 years of service. So it’s with great sadness that we inform you that Mr. Roberts has passed away on December 28th, 2014 at the age of 75 in Bonita Springs, Florida.
Following service in the U.S. Army’s Counter Intelligence Corp., Ross accepted a position at the Ford Motor Company, where he served as Vice President of Lincoln Mercury Sales and Marketing for two years and then at Ford Division as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for ten years. He was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame following his retirement.
The statement below is attributable to Executive Chairman of the Ford Motor Company, Bill Ford:
Ross Roberts was both a great leader and a great friend. Ross’ impact on Ford Motor Company was remarkable, leaving a legacy that endures in the company today. During his tenure, he led the Ford brand to be the top car and truck brand in the U.S., as well as transformed the entire Ford dealer network. Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers truly respected and had great affection for Ross. His compassion and respect for others were hallmarks of his leadership style and we were privileged to have him as part of the Ford family for so many years. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Donna, and his entire family.
Mr. Roberts’ obituary is as follows:
Ross H. Roberts of Bonita Springs, Florida and Bay Harbor, Michigan entered into eternal life on January 28, 2014 at the age of 75. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Donna; children Tara Clappison and her husband Dan Clappison of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ross F. Roberts of Ladera Ranch, California and Brett E. Roberts and his wife Nicole Roberts of Edmond, Oklahoma, and four grandchildren that he deeply cherished, Jordan and Ryan Clappison and Ashley and Luke Roberts. He is also survived by his sister, Cecille Burr of Houston, Texas, and his brother, Don Ed Roberts of Edmond, Oklahoma.
Ross was born in Gainsville, Texas on February 3, 1938 and graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1960 where he was a proud member of the ROTC and Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Upon graduation, he entered the U.S. Army and served our country in the Counter Intelligence Corp. He was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant in 1962. He then accepted a position at the Ford Motor Company where he served as Vice President of Lincoln Mercury Sales and Marketing for two years and then at Ford Division as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for ten years. He always loved the Ford Motor Company where he was employed for 38 years, and has remained friends with many of his co-workers during his retirement years. Ross was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame after his retirement.
Ross was always active in community affairs and recently served in Bonita Springs as President of the Speakers Assembly, and as Commodore of the Bay Harbor Yacht Club. He and his wife, Donna, were very supportive of various organizations especially Hope Hospice, the Bonita Prayer Breakfast and New Horizons. Ross had an outstanding wit and sense of humor. He loved football, especially the Dallas Cowboys, and no matter the outcome always thought they were the best team.
Ross was a devoted Christian and member of First Baptist Church of Naples. Funeral arrangements are being made by Shikany’s Funeral Home. The family would like to thank Hope Hospice for the special care and attention they gave during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Hospice or First Baptist Church of Naples.
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