Rocky Ross, 76, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at his home in Howe, Idaho.
Driving down a rocky road one night, Ma Robertson told Lorraine, “If this baby is a boy you’re naming him Rocky like this road.” Later that night, on September 15, 1949, Rocky Kane Ross was born to Loyal and Lorraine (Robertson) Ross in Jackson, Wyoming.
He grew up surrounded by many friends and family on Hog Island. Alongside his sister, brothers, and many cousins, Rocky lived life to the fullest. He spent his younger years riding horseback to visit neighbors and family before eventually making his way back to Grandma’s house. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1968 and remained in Jackson working for his Grandma Feo on her ranch.
Marriage & Family
It was in Jackson, through his sister Nickie, that Rocky met the love of his life, Carol Coverston, known for her beautiful red hair. They were married on June 19, 1971, and made their first home in Jackson, where Carol worked in town while Rocky continued ranching for Grandma Feo and feeding elk on Horse Creek.
Grandma Feo’s ranch became the center of countless family memories filled with laughter, coffee, storytelling, cousins, and friends.
After seven years of hoping and praying for children, Rocky and Carol were blessed with a son, Jacob Dell, in May of 1978. Two years later, in January of 1980, they welcomed a daughter, Sarah Lorraine.
Shortly after Sarah was born, the family moved to Grover, Wyoming, where Rocky continued ranching, farming, and raising cattle. In 1986, Rocky decided it was time for a change. After looking at several places, the family settled on a small ranch in Howe, Idaho, in the Little Lost River Valley.
Carol’s parents warned her, “Don’t take him up there unless you want to live there because he will love it.” They were right. The moment Rocky saw the property, he knew it was home, and the roots of the Diamond Mill Iron Ranch were established.
Ranching Life
Rocky was the very definition of a cowboy. From a young age, he was known for his natural ability with horses. He trained many over the years with patience, understanding, and remarkable skill.
He was also an exceptional cattleman who willingly shared his knowledge and experience with friends and family, especially when it came to preg-testing cattle and helping neighbors whenever needed.
Some of Rocky’s greatest joys came from driving around checking cattle, riding through the range, inspecting fields, and simply taking in the life he had worked so hard to build. Ranching was not just his livelihood — it was who he was.
Humor & Legacy
Beyond his work ethic, Rocky will be remembered for the joy and laughter he brought into every room. He had a one-of-a-kind sense of humor, a quick wit, and an unforgettable personality. His stories and unmistakable laugh — loud, genuine, and full of life — are memories his family and friends will cherish forever.
Papa
Of all the roles Rocky held in life, none meant more to him than being “Papa.”
His grandchildren — Alexis, Ethan, George, and Riley — were the center of his world. Many children affectionately called him “Papa,” a title that quickly became synonymous with comfort, laughter, and unconditional love.
The grandkids especially loved when Papa would take off his belt and chase them around snapping it, or herd them with the 4-wheeler like cattle, filling the yard with laughter. When Calli and Brody joined the family, they quickly became part of that special group as well.
To his grandchildren, Papa was more than a grandpa — he was their hero.
Survivors
After sharing a couple cups of coffee and telling Jake what he thought needed to be done for the day, Rocky passed away peacefully at his home in Howe, Idaho.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his son Jacob (Crystal) Ross of Howe; his daughter Sarah (Chris) Smith of Arco; his brother Lane (Diane) Ross; his sister Nickie Nowlin; his younger brother Brit Ross, all of Jackson, Wyoming; and his beloved grandchildren Alexis Ross, Ethan Smith, George (Calli Broderick) Ross, Brody Westergard, and Riley Smith. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Loyal and Lorraine Ross; his grandparents George and Feo Robertson; his in-laws Don and Billie Phillips; and brothers-in-law Joe Coverston, Richie Coverston, and Jim Nowlin.
Funeral Services
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Howe LDS Church Building, 1526 E. Highway 33, Howe, Idaho.
A visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church.
Interment will follow in the Howe Cemetery under the care of the Anderson Family Funeral Home.
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