Earl Gross

Earl G. Gross Sr., 70, of Waukegan, went to be with the Lord on Monday, March 18, 2013 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Earl was born on April 22, 1942 in Crandon, WI the son of Grace Spencer Haney and Joe Cracraft. He was raised by his mother and step-father, Bert Haney, the only father he truly knew. Earl leaves to cherish his memory Carla Gross, whom he married in 1979, their son, Earl G. Gross Jr., and granddaughter, Adeline Kenzie Gross. Daughter, Etain (Sladek) Bruss, and two grandchildren, Erin, and John. One sister, Erma (Gross) Groat Evans, and three brothers, Thomas Phenton (Lorain) Gross, Joseph Quenton (Bernice) Gross, all of Crandon, WI, and Hiram (Dolly) Haney of Neenah, WI, as well as too many other relatives and friends to list. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother George Lavoy Gross, and two sisters, Joy (Rae) Gross Davidson, and Nona (Haney) Sears. Earl received his education in Crandon, WI, as well as Lake Forest, IL, North Chicago, IL, and the College of Lake County. He began his work career with the North Shore Railroad, and then spent many years as a truck driver with Lenzini Trucking and other trucking companies, including Nash Brothers. Earl served 11 months in Cam Ranh Bay, Viet Nam and was the first Viet Nam veteran sworn into American Legion Post #281, Waukegan. He was sworn in by Post Commander George L. Groat, his brother-in-law. Best known by his friends as "Pretty Earl" during his younger years, Earl was a member for many years of The Tiny Social Club, and was a frequent patron of the Frolic Lounge. He was an avid fan of car racing and enjoyed watching racing on television. He formed many lifetime friendships during his early motorcycle days at the Indian and Triumph Motorcycle shops of 10th Street. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, March 22, 2013, from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. at the CONGDON FUNERAL HOME, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, IL, followed by a memorial service at 5:00 p.m., Sister Phyllis Miller officiating. In lieu of flowers remembrance donations may be made to the family.