Ross Herman Stoltz, 75, of Wheeling, WV, passed away Sunday, February 19, 2023, at Liza’s Place.
He was born in Naponee, NE, a son of the late Otto “Mike” and Mildred (née Whitney) Stoltz. Ross is known for his long and prestigious career with McDonald’s Restaurants, where he started as a crew person at the age of 17 alongside his older brother Clyde. Taking a break from his career, Ross enlisted into the army during the Vietnam War where he graduated from officer candidate school and achieved the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He was stationed at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. After his three years of service in the army, Ross went to college at Nebraska University as an English major where he met his wife, Carol. After college, Ross resumed his career with McDonald’s corporation and directed numerous restaurants in the Pittsburgh region. In 1989 he was offered the position of McDonald’s liaison in Europe. After much thought, and being a devoted family man, he decided instead to become a McDonald’s franchisee. While owning and operating twelve McDonald’s restaurants, Ross and his family created thousands of jobs in Wheeling and across the Ohio Valley. He was especially admired for his professional drive, and his loyalty and dedication to employee growth. Ross was a participant in the McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity program, helping many of his employees achieve their high school diplomas and college degrees. Ross was also known for his commitment to upholding McDonald’s Golden Standards.
During his career, he was a recipient of several awards including the Ronald Award (twice), the People’s Champion Award, and the prestigious Golden Arch Award, an award given only to the top performing 1% of McDonald’s franchisees in the world. Ross was heavily involved in charities and had a passion for supporting the community. He has supported many local schools, organizations, children’s sports teams, and countless fundraisers. He participated in McDonald’s MAC grants for teachers for over 20 years, and was a board member of Ronald McDonald House in Morgantown. Ross was also dedicated to sponsoring the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference and had great pride for the McDonald’s OVAC All-Star Marching Band, whom he supported for over 25 years. His philanthropy with the OVAC earned him placement in the OVAC Hall of Fame, one of his most prized achievements. Ross was a fan and major sponsor of the Wheeling Nailers hockey team, whom he also supported for over 25 years. Ross was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 364, located in his hometown of Naponee, Nebraska. During his spare time Ross enjoyed gardening, watching sports and the Wheeling Nailers, going to rock concerts, and proudly loved watching his grandkids play youth hockey.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his two brothers, Raymond and Clyde Stoltz.
Ross is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Carol (Cutright) Stoltz; three children, Amanda (Glenn) Moore of Wheeling, Michael (Connie) Stoltz of San Diego, and Robert “Bob” Stoltz of Wheeling; two grandchildren, Brenden and Tessa Moore; several in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins; and his beloved cat, Fred.
Family and friends will be received Wednesday, February 22, 2023 from 12-3 and 5-7 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Homes, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger St. Interment will be held at a later date at Naponee Cemetery, Naponee, NE.
Ross’s family would like to thank the staff and volunteers at Liza’s Place for their excellent care and service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Morgantown or to the Naponee Booster Club in Naponee, C/O www.tmcfunding.com.
