Jan. 31, 1925 – Feb. 18, 2023
Miriam Gross, 98, of Cottage Grove, Ore. passed on Feb. 18, 2023. Miriam was born Jan. 31, 1925 in San Fernando, Calif. to parents John Earl and Mildred Ione (Olney) Aikens.
Miriam met the love of her life, Ward, at a youth meeting in Van Nuys, Calif. They married on May 21, 1948, only 100 feet from where they met. This May of 2023 would have marked their 75th wedding anniversary. Ward said “they had a remarkable marriage, and he was truly blessed. In 1960, Miriam and Ward adopted two sons, Steven and Martin.
Miriam lived in Cottage Grove for over 16 years and retired from Bank of America. She loved knitting Afghans and sweaters and cross stitching, and many are displayed in their home.
Miriam loved to read, and music was her passion. She enjoyed singing in the choir at the First Baptist Church in Cottage Grove. She is survived by her husband Ward of Cottage Grove; and sons Steven Laird Gross and Martin Todd Gross.
A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church located at 301 S. 6th Street on Sunday, March 12 at noon (after church). A private family inurnment will be at Walker Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
