September 21, 1950 – October 16, 2025
Ross left us in the early hours of October 16, 2025, after a long and difficult battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He will be remembered fondly as a loving husband, proud father, patient coach, and sage advisor.
Ross was born in Melville, Saskatchewan, to Herbert and Nellie (Hawley). He was the second of five boys; Starford, Kim, Kevin, and Trevor. He first made his way to Kamloops, from the Prairies, to become the Sports Editor for the Kamloops Daily Sentinel. After retiring as the Managing Editor, Ross pursued a course of study to become one of the first independent insurance brokers in the region, and to become a Certified Financial Planner. This turned out to be his true calling, and he remained active in this vocation throughout the rest of his life.
Ross was, perhaps above all else, known as a community-minded individual. He frequently would join a sport, or participate in a community group, for a period of time, before invariably seeking a way to serve that organization in some way. As a patron of the arts, he served on the WCTC Board with a focus on fundraising. As a competitive softball player, he soon sought to contribute to that community by serving as the President of Kamloops Slo-Pitch, President of Kamloops Minor Fastpitch, a registered coach, a carded umpire, and frequent tournament coordinator. He was a supportive partner to his wife, Darlene, a teacher with SD73, frequently assisting with events, athletics, or officiating; or most importantly, keeping their kids occupied during report card season. He was an active father to their sons, Jeremy (Stacey) and Jordan (Kelsa). Frequently serving as a coach, referee, or driver to their various activities and sports. He was an avid fisherman, teaching Jeremy a passion he has to this day, and providing Jordan the opportunity to learn patience.
He was a gregarious man. His life was one of smiles and friendly greetings. Well known as a passionate storyteller, having the voice and flare for dramatics one would aspire to. However, he was also very practical and well respected for his counsel. As such, he was appointed by the Governor General to the Employment Insurance: Board of Referees where he served as Chairperson two terms until it was restructured.
Ross’ desired neither pomp nor circumstance, and requested a wake to be remembered by his close friends and family where stories were shared cheerfully. His ashes are to be scattered at those places he loved. and with his loved ones.
Condolences may be sent to the family from
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
2 Tributes
Saddened to hear of the passing of former media colleague Ross Phelps. Ross and I were often travelling partners while both of us reported on the Kamloops Chiefs of the WCHL (now WHL) between 1974 and 1977. Sincere condolences to Ross’s family.
Earl Seitz
saddened to hear about the passing of a man I I consider not only a trusted advisor but a friend. After my father passed away we would meet up for lunch and he would regale me with stories of their time at the Kamloops Sentinel and educate me in the finer points of baseball. We lost touch over the years but I will always proudly call him a friend. My deepest condolences to his loved ones.