Clyde Ross Sr.

Clyde Ross Sr., 87, of Libby, Montana, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 18, surrounded by his loving family.

Clyde was born on Feb. 21, 1937, in Humboldt, Kansas, to Charles and Anna Whited Ross. He proudly served in the Army from 1955 to 1958. Shortly after his military service, Clyde met the love of his life, Betty Louise Hutton, in Libby, Montana, and they were married on Nov. 14, 1963. 

Clyde became a devoted stepfather to Betty’s children from her first marriage to Howard Sulo Sunell, and together they had one son, Clyde Ross Jr.

Clyde spent much of his life dedicated to his work and family. He worked alongside his brothers, including at Ross Turf Farms in Kansas and then at the Stimson Lumber Yard in Libby for over 30 years. Clyde and Betty made their home in Libby, Montana, where they raised their children and built a life full of love and memories.

Clyde was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; his parents, Charles and Anna Ross; his brothers Jake, Jacky and Edward Ross; his sister Lottie Semler; his son, Clyde Jr., his stepchildren, Evelyn Marie Sunell, Sally Sunell Phillips and Thomas W. Sunell.

He is survived by his children: Marcia Sunell Alexander of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Howard R. Sunell, Kenneth R. Sunell, of Kalispell, Montana, and John M. Simms, of Spring Valley, California. Clyde also leaves behind his grandchildren: Aaron, Jason, Jeremy, Ashley, Emily, Matthew, Adam, Melissa, Cassie, Karina, Larissa, Oliver, Zachery, Crystal, Michael, Jesse, Stacey and Dave, as well as numerous great and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply.

Clyde’s family was the center of his world and he loved nothing more than spending time with them. His legacy of love, hard work and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Clyde requested that no funeral services be held, and instead, the family will host a garage sale and a cookout in his honor in the summer of 2025. Proceeds from the garage sale will go to charities that were near and dear to the hearts of his, Betty’s, and Clyde Jr.’s.

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.