Ross Carl Eilts of Massena, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, July 2, 2025. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at Massena Community Building (118 Main Street, Massena, IA 50853) on Sunday, July 6, 2025 2-4 pm. Memorials may be directed to the Ross Eilts Memorial Fund, to be established by the family. Online condolences may be shared at http://www.powersfh.com.
Ross was born on December 18, 1940, in Atlantic, Iowa, the son of Herman Antonne Eilts, Jr. and Wilma Mae (Hansen) Eilts. During his youth, Ross was active in 4-H and earned Grand Champion honors while showing his heifer, and Reserve Grand Champion while showing his steer. He graduated from Walnut High School in 1959 and later attended CE Trade School in Omaha, where he earned a certificate in business.
In 1960, Ross enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard, serving in the “Red Bull” Division. During his service, he earned recognition as a rifle marksman, pistol sharpshooter, and rifle-class gunner. He was honorably discharged in 1968.
On October 7, 1967, Ross was united in marriage to Linda Jean Lowers at the First Christian Church in Atlantic, Iowa. They shared 57 years of marriage. Together they raised three children—Kimberly, Trent, and Shane—with all who knew them well understanding that Trent was undoubtedly his favorite (with a wink).
Ross had a deep love for farming and took great pride in providing for his family. He began working on the family farm in Cass County, Iowa, which later became a Century Farm. He farmed until his retirement in the late 1980s. Alongside farming, he also worked as a veterinary assistant for Bond & Denham in Cumberland. After retiring from farming, he drove over a million miles as a bundle drop driver for the Omaha World-Herald, The Des Moines Register, and USA Today. He also managed the Crestwood Hills Golf Course in Anita.
His passion for farming extended beyond crops—it blossomed into Rosalinda Garden. One of his greatest joys was introducing others to his cherished koi fish. The garden made space for The Outdoor Classroom for CAM Middle School students, Ross also dedicated his time to youth programs, actively participating in both the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. He helped organize Pinewood Derby races and even hosted mini boat regatta.
A talented woodworker, Ross took pride in crafting handmade items, especially baby cradles for each of his grandchildren. He was an active member of the Massena Fire Department, a charter member of the Massena Lions Club, and served on the Massena City Council.
A loyal Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, he proudly wore the team’s colors all his life—right up until his passing.
Ross is survived by his wife, Linda Eilts of Massena; his children: Kimberly (Michael) Bagshaw of Cumberland, Trent (Robbin) Eilts of Austin, Arkansas, and Shane (Laura) Eilts of Scottsdale, Arizona; his sisters: Lois Troll of Walnut and Edna Carl of Lenox; sisters-in-law: Pat Marshall of Atlantic and Barb (Jay) Mackey of Maryville, Missouri; grandchildren: Zachary Bagshaw (Partner Emma Allumbaugh), Hunter (Ashlynn) Bagshaw, Hope (Aaron) Maxey, Hannah (fiancé Micah Frisby), Charles Rule, James Rule, and Elizabeth Eilts; and great-grandchildren: Ryder Bagshaw, Elise and Emersyn Maxey, and Everleigh Bagshaw. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Wilma Eilts; his brother, John and Barbara Eilts; brothers-in-law: Louie Troll, Jeffery Carl, and Phil Marshall; and his in-laws, Richard and Doris Lowers.
Celebration of Life will be July 6, 2025 from 2pm to 4pm at Massena Community Building in Massena Iowa.
