Ross Jay McKechnie

Ross McKechnie was born on Oct. 29, 1948, in Portland. He was the first of four children born to Floyd and Virginia (Farrell) McKechnie. He started first grade at Pleasant Valley Elementary, then to Centennial High School, Multnomah Jr. College, and Portland State.

Ross started working as a dance promoter, running weekly rock and roll dances at D Street featuring local and national bands. He expanded with more venues in the greater metro area. Ross was in the Oregon National Guard, worked for Portland Terminal Railroad, started Romac Corporation, and worked in commercial real estate.

He was a Cub Scout and then achieved Life rank and Order of the Arrow in the Boy Scouts. Ross attended the 1960 National Jamboree in Colorado, and with his dad as a leader, went to Philmont Scout Ranch. He grew up going to annual Powell-Propst family reunions, honoring the pioneer family’s treks to Oregon in 1851 and 1852. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Ross married Rebecca Wolf in 1974; they later divorced. He is survived by his two children, Benjamin (Portland) and Jennifer Oukherfalla (London), and four grandchildren; sisters April Ober and Merry Anna Mucken; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Scott.

Many people will remember Ross’s big smile, his laughter, and generosity. He could tell great jokes and always had a very positive attitude. “It’ll all work out.”

A celebration of life will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, August 16, at Lakeside Gardens, 16211 SE Foster Road. Please share memories and photos, and let us know if you plan to attend. RSVP to april.ober@gmail.com

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.