Shirley Ross, longtime fixture and “institution” at Bagel Deli on E. Hampden Ave., passed away November 29, 2021 in Fort Collins. Mrs. Ross was buried at Fairmount Cemetery; no service was planned, and a memorial celebration will be held at a later date. She was 90.
Mrs. Ross was a member of the Bagel Deli family for 45 years as a hostess, cook and server, starting shortly after the restaurant opened in 1967. She retired at age 80.
“Many longtime customers will remember her friendliness, sense of humor, and South African accent,” said her family. “It wasn’t unusual for customers to walk in and ask for Shirley to wait on them.”
Mrs. Ross was born Shirley Weiner on April 12, 1931 in Zastron, South Africa. She married the late Eric Ross in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1954, and moved to the US one year later.
Mrs. Ross was preceded in death by her husband, in 2012; and by her son Edmund Ross, who died in 2019.
She is survived by her children; Elaine Ross Wolken of Hot Springs, Ark., Deborah Ross of Longmont, David Ross of Longmont, and Sharon Ross of Fort Collins; and six grandchildren.
Memorial contributions can be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and the ADL Mountain States Region.
