In loving memory of

Elza VanDerWaerden Gross
June 12, 1938 - February 13, 2021

Elza V. Gross died peacefully on Saturday, February 13, 2021. Elza was born in Detroit on June 12, 1938 to August and Adele VanDerWaerden. She was the first generation of her family born in the United States. Her family originated in Denderleeuw Belgium, a place very special to her heart. After finishing high school in Detroit, Elza worked for Detroit Edison until leaving to raise her family. It was at DTE that she met her late husband, Richard K. Gross, with whom she shared 57 wonderful years. Elza loved her family, art, music, cooking, and a good laugh. She is survived by her loving children Karin, David (Lynn) and Neal; her beloved grandchildren Matthew, Lauren and Kenneth, and by many cousins here and in Belgium. A funeral mass will be said for immediate family. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Macular Degeneration Research, support.brightfocus.org, or Michigan Braille and Talking Books Library, PO Box 11027, Lansing, Michigan 48901. 

Arrangements entrusted to Chas. Verheyden, Inc - 16300 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230

Tributes

The Thompson wrote on Mar 16, 2021:

"Elza and Dick Gross were wonderfully kind and responsible neighbors for ever-so-many years. Jim and Jed really enjoyed working with Dick, David, and Neal at scouts, and Elza was always warm and kind. The Thompson family sends their condolences to Karin, David, and Neal, and the whole family. Our sympathies and condolences to the family. "

The Chupas wrote on Mar 9, 2021:

"The Gross?s were the best neighbors ever! Mrs Gross always had a sincere smile with a warm caring greeting. Mr and Mrs Gross were truly in love and their kids were the highlight of their lives. Our condolences to Karin, David and Neil. Sincerely, the Chupas "

Byron Hughes wrote on Mar 8, 2021:

"Deeply saddened to hear of Mrs Gross passing. my condolences to Karin David & Neil Your mother was a very kind & caring woman. My she rest in eternal glory ?"

Emily Rennpage wrote on Feb 19, 2021:

"I just now had a happy memory of meeting Mrs Gross and Karin while they were on a walk together and I was walking with my husband and kids. The smiles on their faces were infectious. Mrs Gross was beyond delighted to see the kids. Makes me smile even now, years later. "

Terry Harding wrote on Feb 17, 2021:

"Sincerest sympathy to family. Fondly remember meeting Elza and Dick when Lynn and David announced their engagement. "