About Ed Ross

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Ed Ross grew up in a military family, living around the world as his father served a career in the United States Air Force. In contrast, his wife, Susan, was born and raised in Dayton, where she developed deep and lasting community roots. The two met in their youth and remained close over the years, with their friendship eventually growing into a lifelong partnership. They were married in 1969.

Ed attended Wright State University and Miami University before completing basic training with the Ohio National Guard during the Vietnam era. Susan attended Eastern Kentucky University and later trained at Miami Valley Hospital, beginning a pioneering career in radiation therapy.

Together, they raised their two sons, Michael and Patrick (P.J.), in Kettering and Beavercreek, where both graduated from Beavercreek High School. Michael went on to graduate from The Ohio State University, and P.J. from the University of Cincinnati. Today, Ed is proud of a growing family that includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with Michael residing in Columbus and P.J. living in Brooklyn, New York.

After earning his business degree from Wright State University, Ed began his professional career as a buyer at Rike’s Department Store before transitioning into manufacturing management. Over the course of his career, he specialized in materials management and held leadership roles with NCR, Shopsmith, Harris Graphics, AIDA, and Jones Lang LaSalle, retiring in 2011.

Susan’s career was equally groundbreaking. She became the first certified medical dosimetrist in the greater Dayton area and the third in Ohio, following advanced training at The Ohio State University. She retired in 2009.
Throughout their marriage, Ed and Susan lived in five homes, two of which they designed and built themselves. Susan led much of the home design and interior work, while Ed focused on landscaping and maintenance, reflecting a partnership built on shared vision and complementary talents.

In 2005, as empty nesters ready for a new chapter, Ed and Susan purchased a historic 1840 farmhouse on four acres in the heart of Centerville. Once part of the homestead of Ida Weller—a noted local farmer, writer, artist, and educator. The property had fallen into significant disrepair. Despite considerable challenges, Ed recognized its potential and took on the ambitious task of restoring it.

What followed were years of hands-on work and careful stewardship. Ed led the transformation of the structure back into a single-family home, preserving its historic character while making it suitable for modern living. Their efforts earned the City of Centerville’s Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Stewardship in 2020.

Soon after moving to Centerville, Ed became deeply involved with the Centerville-Washington History organization. He served on the Board and went on to serve more than a decade as President, helping guide the organization through a period of growth and expanded community engagement. Susan also played an important role, serving as President and curator, and contributing her talents as a designer and editor on numerous publications.
Ed has further served the community through his role on the Centerville Board of Architectural Review, where he has been a member for ten years and chair for the past six. During a time of significant change in Uptown Centerville, his leadership has helped balance thoughtful development with historic preservation.

Ed’s home has become a centerpiece for connection and community. The restored barn on the property has hosted family gatherings, weddings, charitable events, and the now-traditional “Thanksgiving in the Barn,” which brings together dozens of family members each year. He also maintains a shared garden space with neighbors—earning him the affectionate nickname “Farmer Ed.”

Among his many contributions, Ed has:

• Founded and led the “Sense of Taste” annual fundraiser for 12 years 

• Helped spearhead the restoration of Centerville’s historic cemetery with over 200 volunteers 

• Managed a long-running antique booth supporting local history initiatives 

• Delivered educational talks on local history to area organizations 

• Designed and built Americana Festival parade floats for a decade 

• Led the creation of the Outdoor Rural Education Center 

 

In recognition of his service, Ed was named Centerville Volunteer of the Year in 2022.

Through his leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication, Ed Ross has made a profound and lasting impact on the Centerville community. His story is one of service, preservation, and a deep appreciation for history, family, and the community he proudly calls home.