Ellen Jean (Thomas) Gross

Ellen Jean Gross, 89, of Peru, Indiana, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at 4:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 4, 2021.

Born in Indianapolis on January 1, 1932, to Charles and Myrtle Thomas, Ellen lived in Indiana for most of her life. She graduated from Manual High School in 1950, and on June 5, 1953, she married Robert D. Gross (deceased). They became the parents of five children. Ellen lived in Peru from 1963 until her death.

She is survived by two sons, Stephan (Eileen) Gross of Peru; David (Mary Ellen) Gross of Carmel; three daughters, Kathleen (Steven) Leeper of Elkhart; Joni (David) Bruns of Martinsville; and Mariellen (Robert) Pullen of Walton; thirteen grandchildren and spouses, fifteen great-grandchildren (with another on the way); one sister, M. Fern Riley of Indianapolis; a nephew and two nieces.

In addition to her parents and husband, Ellen was preceded in death by her four brothers, Robert Brock, Charles Thomas, Paul Thomas, and Raymond Thomas.

Ellen worked at several different places in the area, including Senger Dry Goods and J.C. Penney. She was a great cook and loved spending time with family. In her later years she traveled to numerous bluegrass music shows with her friend and companion, John Swantner. Ellen had a very pleasant personality, made friends easily, and was loved by all who knew her.

Visitation with the family will be at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home at 105 W. Third St. in Peru, IN, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 12, 2021. The funeral will immediately follow.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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