Meredith Ross

Madison - Meredith Ross, 60, died April 20 in Madison, surrounded by her loving family. Merry attended UW-Madison for graduate school and then taught in the English department. She later went to UW Law School and upon graduation became a clinical professor of law. Within several years, she was named Director of the Frank J. Remington Center where she worked until her "retirement" in 2012. She continued to teach at the law school until 2014.

Merry was a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, colleague, teacher, and inspiration. She was an intrepid baker, animal lover, a consummate reader, and gave new meaning to the concept of "persistent." Merry and her patient husband, Dave Ward, looked at every lake in Central Wisconsin for years before finding the perfect spot to build their dream home on Crystal Lake near Wautoma, which just happened to be four doors down from the cottage her family has owned for almost 60 years.

Merry was a star within the Wisconsin legal community. She was recognized for her remarkable contributions by legal organizations far and wide. She was a treasured member of the law school. A former student remarked, "Merry was a breath of fresh air in the law school, and generations of law students learned to be lawyers under her watch."

Merry was the daughter of Shirley and the late Frank Ross, and the beloved wife of Dave Ward. She was preceded in death by her brother Doug. In addition to her mother Shirley and husband Dave, Merry is survived by Shayden (Lindsey) Ward, Debby (Rusty) Haines, Bronwen Ross, Ginny Ross (Gael Boyd), Gail Ross (Catie McDowell), Suzy (Mark) Scudder, and a large gaggle of nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. The family wishes to thank Dr. Henry Ian Robins and his staff, Dr. Richard Reich, the staff at UW Carbone Cancer Center, Agrace Hospice, and Heartland Hospice. Contributions can be made to the Friends of the Frank J. Remington Center c/o UW Law School or the Carbone Cancer Center, UW Hospital.

A very casual going away party for Merry will be held at Fireman's Park, 7400 Lee St., Middleton on Sunday May 15, 1-5 pm. Friends, family, and fans are all invited. In typical Ross fashion, there will be many fabulous desserts. Yes I think to myself, what a wonderful world.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
608-238-3434