Former MVS Craft Director Donald Ross Passes Away

(This article first appeared in the January/February 2022 issue of the American Postal Worker magazine)

Donald Ross, former Motor Vehicle Service Craft Director, passed away on November 13 at the age of 89.

Brother Ross joined the Post Office as a mechanic driver in 1954, following six years of service in the United States Army. In 1966, he became president of the Chicago Local of the National Federation of Motor Vehicle Employees and Special Delivery Messengers, and in 1970 began serving as a regional representative for the Central Region. In 1982, Brother Ross became the national Assistant Director for the MVS Craft, a position he held for five years before becoming the MVS Craft Director in 1987. Brother Ross left the position in 1995, and stayed active in the APWU after his retirement. At the time of his passing, Brother Ross was president of the Chicago Local Retiree Chapter.

During his time as MVS Craft Director, Brother Ross was instrumental in multiple cases that advanced the APWU’s goals, built union power, and improved the lives of countless postal workers. Even following his retirement, Brother Ross stayed involved, including in the 2004 Driving Instructor Examiner case which secured the position (now Driving Safety Instructor) for the MVS Craft for generations to come.

“The Motor Vehicle Service lost one of its staunchest leaders with the passing of former MVS Director Donald A. Ross,” said MVS Craft Director Michael O. Foster. “Those members who were around in the 80s and 90s benefited from Brother Ross’s strong leadership and passion for the MVS Craft. Much of the contract language and benefits negotiated by Donald remain in today’s CBA. I am proud to have known and been mentored by Don Ross and considered him a friend. Condolences to the Ross family, may he rest in peace.”