Remembrance by Pete Ross, Eliza Nuxoll, and Jennifer Wolf
Peg Ross was a woman of deep faith and strong convictions. Raised Lutheran, she pivoted to the Episcopal church when she married Pete and decreed that a condition of their union would be an unwavering commitment to the Christian faith. Together, they became regular attendees and their faith became integral to their daily lives. As Pete fondly says, “She saved me in more ways than one.”
They arrived at St. Clare’s in January of 1992. Peg served on the vestry and attended many diocesean conventions and three General Conventions. At the Epsicopal Church’s 2006 General Convention, she joined with fellow volunteers to escort newly elected Presiding Bishop, Katharine Jefferts Schori into the House of Deputies. Peg also supported Pete in the many ways he served as a church member, including as secretary for the vestry – a position he still holds today.
Peg, Pete, and John and Janie Little joined together to offer Episcopal Marriage Encounter (EME) weekend retreats. Peg and Pete also served on the National EME Board. All sessions required clergy pairs on the presentation panel and, as a result of those many shared experiences, Peg and Pete had a lens into the challenges that are unique to clergy. As a result, Peg became a champion for clergy. When the Rev Maryjane Peck arrived at St. Clare’s as our interim priest, Peg stepped up immediately to offer support and guidance during this complicated period. “She was the first one to meet me after I was selected to be the interim at St. Clare’s and made me feel welcomed with her smile.” Peg and Pete invited Maryjane to lunch and a deep friendship formed from those shared conversations and an unwavering commitment to helping St. Clare’s heal and move forward.
Peg and Pete’s relationship was one of enduring love and deep connection. St. Clarian’s may recall their matching outfits at Sunday services and the way they gave each other communion at the rail. They also traveled the world extensively, including extended stays in Hawaii and Great Britain, as well as camping along Canada’s eastern shore. As part of a local club, they took up dirt biking together – Peg knew her limits on the bike, but Pete did not; still, she nursed him through recovery for a broken leg.
Peg was a teacher by training and an advocate by temperament. She ensured her elementary school students received the support they needed to thrive, and she was a skilled union negotiator on behalf of her peers in the Romulus Community School District. She found joy in meeting new people and delighted in entertaining – her beef stroganoff and taco salad dishes are still remembered with longing.
As Peg’s Parkinson’s advanced, Pete was her devoted caregiver. While the disease limited Peg’s mobility, it did not define her. She continued on with a joyful heart, a determined will, and a grace that allowed her to adapt and shine. She also continued to build relationships with congregants of all ages, including Anna Nuxoll with whom Peg shared an enthusiasm for fancy footwear. When Anna learned of Peg’s passing, she said “I can’t imagine church without her.”
Peg’s faith carried her through life and surely she rests with the Lord – although odds are no one in her heavenly circle gets to rest for long as there is too much love, laughter, and adventure to experience!