Retired Master Sergeant Ross Holden Milton, 91, passed away peacefully and with dignity in Yorba Linda, CA on October 25, 2013 of causes incident to age. Ross was born February 8, 1922 in Long Beach, CA to Ina Mae (Berve) and Roscoe Blaine Milton. He graduated from Huntington Park High School in 1940. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in March 1941. Thirty years later, Ross retired after serving in three wars and achieving the rank of E8, the second highest enlisted pay grade. He was awarded the United Nations Service Medal; the Meritorious Unit Commendation; the National Defense Service Medal; the Korean Service Medal; and the Army Good Conduct Medal (7th award).

Ross was an expert in the field of Criminal Investigation. He was a sharp detective, as well as the kindest and gentlest man you would ever know. While he was stationed at the Presidio in San Francisco, CA, he met the love of his life, Bella Karras. They married on November 6, 1959 and shared nearly 50 years of happiness and adventure. He was Chrismated and married at Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Salt Lake City, UT in 1982.

During his military career, Ross proudly served his country in California, Georgia, North Carolina, Nevada, Korea and Japan. When he retired in 1971, he and Bella returned home to California. They lived in California, Nevada, and Arizona. When Bella passed away on May 16, 2009 in Arizona, Ross moved back home to be near his little sister, June Mitchell in Fullerton, CA.

Ross enjoyed traveling and playing piano, and he had a passion for automobiles. He loved his family. He treated all of his nieces and nephews, his grand nieces and nephews and even his great-grand nieces and nephews as if they were the most treasured gifts in the world. Above all, he loved Bella Karras Milton.

Ross is survived by: sister, June Mitchell; nieces Deborah Wilmshurst (Tom); Rebecca Matics (Richard); Jennifer Mitchell (Anna Vogt); Pam Martinez (Tom); and their families. He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Bella; and his nephew, Eric.

Trisagion service will be held Oct.29, 2013, 7:00 pm at Chapman Funeral Home, 1342 E Chapman Avenue, Orange, CA. Funeral Wed., October 30, 11:00 am at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 10830 Downey Ave., Downey, CA. Burial at Rose Hills Cemetery in Whittier, CA. May his memory be eternal.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Emeritus Senior Living in Yorba Linda and Seasons Hospice for their care and compassion.