James Baxter Ross Jr. of Superior, WI passed away surrounded by his family at Aspirus St. Luke's Hospital on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from complications of lung cancer.

Born in Superior, WI on July 26, 1945 to Louise and James Ross. He graduated in 1963 from East High School in Superior.

James married Terry DeBrock on July 21, 1972 in Superior and they celebrated 54 years together.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1966. During his service, he sailed on the USS Constellation with deployments to the Western Pacific and Vietnam.

He worked for the Wisconsin Bell Telephone company and retired from the Superior Water Light and Power Company.

He was active in his children's youth sports programs, spending countless hours as a coach, assistant coach, and manager over many seasons.

He enjoyed following his grandchildren's sports, loved being home doing yard work, going to coffee with his friend Tom Kurtz, and watching sports on TV.

James was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-laws, Joe Balcer, Bill Ford and Bob Stone. James is survived by his wife, Terry; sons, Joel (Erin) of Mendota Heights, MN, Justin of Superior, Matthew (Sally) of Hayden, CO; grandchildren, Luke, Alison, Baxter, and Winnie; sister, Mary Stone; several nieces and nephews, sisters-in-laws and brother-in-law, and extended family members.

No formal service will be held per James' wishes. A private family celebration of life will take place at a later date.