Dr Keith Ross: A Tribute and Remembrance

By Phil Barnard

Keith Ross at Highfields
Keith Ross at Highfields

The very sad news that Society member Dr Keith Ross had passed away at Compton Hospice on 21 April 2020 will have come as a great shock to those who knew him. Keith was a modest and unassuming member, but who was at the same time never happier than when talking about astronomy and passing on his knowledge and enthusiasm to others. It comes as no surprise to learn from his daughter Samantha that this included members of his own family, who clearly enjoyed spending time with him as he explained the wonders of the night sky when weather permitted.

He was also an active member, as evidenced by the included photograph, taken in March 2014 when he assisted the Society at an event organised during Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics week at Highfields School. Again showing Keith doing what he loved most, imparting his knowledge to a younger generation.

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Obituary: Dr Keith Ross

15th March 1946 – 21st April 2020

Dr Keith Ross

Keith passed away peacefully at Compton Hospice on 21st April 2020. A retired Consultant Paediatrician at New Cross Hospital for nearly 30 years, he was responsible for establishing the Neonatal Unit and was a greatly admired and respected doctor.

His retirement gift from his colleagues was a telescope. He had a love of science and planned to use his retirement to learn more about the sky. Owning a narrow boat, and travelling the waterways with his wife Sandra, gave him the perfect opportunity to sit on dark canal paths and look at the stars. His membership in the Wolverhampton Astronomical Society was very important to him and he always looked forward to his Monday night evenings. He enjoyed sharing this passion with his family, buying junior telescopes for the grandchildren, and regularly phoning to update them on what they could see in the sky. The whole family spent cold evenings waiting for clouds to disperse and stars to emerge, not always with success!

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