Ross J. Barcelona

Ross was born on October 19, 1933, in his family home in Chicago, Illinois, the third son of Sam and Sarah. Believe it or not, he was a public school kid until high school. Being the consummate athlete, Ross earned a full scholarship to St. Leo High School where he was a star halfback for the football team. At the tender age of 17, he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Julia. Three years later on August 29, 1953, they married and the whirl wind story began. They lived in Chicago where they had four daughters who adored their Daddy. Being a father and the father of daughters no less seemed to complete Ross. He and Julia raised his girls to be loving, caring, honest and hard working people. They also instilled that competitive spirit that was so much a part of them both. The early years were filled with backyard wiffle ball games, swimming and family outings to the beach, museums and the culture that living in Chicago afforded them. He loved football,'Da Bears' and the Broncos and attended many of their games. He loved when the Bears won the Super Bowl and was thrilled when the Broncos did as well. He fancied himself a golfer and lover of all sports, and his family helped to create sport fanatics of his children and grandchildren, both as spectators and participants. In 1977, Ross took a position as a Sales Representative with Sealy Mattress Company and moved his family to Colorado. In 1980, Ross won the distinguished title of Sales Man of the Year. The move to Colorado brought Ross closer to his mother and aunt. In 1986, health issues forced Ross to retire; however, we all know that it was just a career change. He stayed home with the dogs he loved dearly, became a gourmet cook, and took over the household chores all while caring for his mother and aunt. The Barcelona house has always been the place to be. Ross and Julie and their love for each other made it that way. Everyone was always welcome, and friends of his children and grandchildren called him Dad or Gramps. Ross was happiest when there was a house full. Ross was the finest example of a man for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ross is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Julia; daughters Laura, Nancy, Cathy and Marianne; grandchildren Erin, Garrett, Amanda, Matthew, Ashleigh and Heather; and great grandchildren Teaghen, Taityn, Gavin, Jayden and Conor. Visitation will be held Sunday, December 27, 2009 from 1-2 p.m. with Memorial Service following at 2 p.m., both at the Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 5303 East County Line Road (one block to the west of Holly Street), in Centennial, Colorado. A reception will follow the Memorial Service. Memorials are suggested in Ross's name to the American Heart Association, 1280 South Parker Road, Denver, Colorado 80231. Please share your memories of Ross and condolences with his family by selecting the ""sign guestbook"" button below.