As many as 90 trucks took part in a memorial rally today to honour the memory of two beloved Squamish residents who passed away recently.
Margaret “Gail” & Harvey “Merrill” Ross passed away from COVID complication within 17 hours of each other on May 5 and 6.
Several residents gathered lined up along the highway and local roads to pay their tributes as a memorial convey of 90 trucks honked and rolled their way around town, from Downtown Squamish to Depot Road and back, in a fitting tribute to the family.
The truck rally was organised by Darren Doak, the owner of JR Transport, and a close family friend.
“It was just fantastic, the best thing ever and it was great to see the old Squamish came together in such a huge way to honour Merrill and Gail,” said an emotional Darren Doak.
“When I saw all the trucks and all the people on the street, I got pretty break up, but it was just fantastic to see the community honour them in such a way.”
Merrill and Gail’s son, Scott Ross, said the family was very appreciate for the support the community had shown today, and to Darren for organizing the rally.
“It was a fantastic way for the community to remember our parents, and it didn’t surprise me because there are a lot of families that have deep roots here,” he said.
“It was so nice to see the support from everyone and it wasn’t just the loggers and the truckers,” he added.
Merrill and Gail were both born and raised in Montague, Prince Edward Island and moved to Squamish in 1969 with two baby boys, Craig and Alan, and the family grew with Scott and Leanne soon following. They remained in Squamish, with a short stint in Vancouver, for the next 51 years.
Merrill was well known in the logging and construction industry. Known for his old school work ethic and someone who could always be relied on.
Merrill drove logging trucks, highway trucks and gravel trucks and always loved to keep the wheels rolling. Honesty and integrity were the trademarks of Merrill’s personality.
Gail was the ultimate team mom, who loved supporting and volunteering with youth hockey, soccer, baseball and ringette within the Squamish community. Gail was also well known for her very kind and loving demeanour which was obvious to anyone that had the pleasure of meeting her.
Merrill and Gail are survived by their children Craig (Laurice), Alan ( Lorraine), Scott (Heather) and Leanne (G-Ball). Grandchildren Bradley, Brianna, Austin, Hannah, Ally, Harvey and Wyatt. Family was everything to the two of them. From raising their four children, to watching their family grow with grandchildren. They were so proud of each and every one of them.
Loved working alongside him……