July 15, 1946 – July 30, 2023
It is with deep sorrow that her family announces the passing of DeMaris (Fielder) Ross, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. DeMaris passed away on July 30, 2023, after a long battle with vascular and bone marrow disease at the age of 77.
In 1946, DeMaris was born to Helen and Frank Ross. She grew up in Timber Lake – a place that DeMaris has always reflected on as her favorite place on earth. Anyone close to DeMaris has heard the hilarious and sweet stories about her hometown that made such a strong impact on her identity.
Those who knew DeMaris would attest to her endless generosity, her abundance of creativity and talent, and her compassion for those less fortunate. Her joy and silly sense of humor were contagious. She loved to sing, dance, and spend time with her daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter, and their dogs, Charlie and Goose.
DeMaris is survived by her daughter, Lesa Valenzuela; son-in-law, Jeff Persons and granddaughter Sofia Valenzuela Persons of Mountlake Terrace, WA; sister Vallie (John) Petterson of Kenosha, WI; two brothers, Charlie (Paula) Ross of Anchorage, AK, and Brad (Linda) Ross of Tucson, AZ) and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Frank Ross, and sisters Mary Jane Brown, Memoree Luther, Sally Carlson, and Frankie Ross.
A celebration of her life will take place on March 31, 2024 in the greater Phoenix area. To request information about her celebration or to share memories, please email valenzuela. ece@gmail.com