Jean Lynn (Knapwurst) Ross, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 63.
Jean was born on February 17, 1963, in Oshkosh, WI, to Adair and Mary Lou (Covill) Knapwurst. She attended school in Wild Rose, WI, and graduated in 1981. She then attended Madison Area Technical College in Madison, WI earning an associates degree in Clothing and Textiles in 1983.
Jean’s creativity and determination shaped both her career and her life. She began working for McGilligan's Upholstery before opening her own upholstery business with her then-husband Jeff Ross. In 1994, she earned her associates degree in Electron Microscopy from MATC. She moved to Iowa, where she worked for the University of Iowa as a Research Assistant for 18 years. At the time of her passing, Jean had been employed as a Bio Imaging Research Associate for 13 ½ years at the University of Delaware, where she was respected for her knowledge, dedication, and commitment to research.
Jean was an avid Philadelphia Flyers fan and enjoyed attending games with her close friend, Courtney. She was also a talented seamstress and quilter who found great joy in creating beautiful quilts for family and friends. Her craftsmanship and generosity will be remembered by all who received one of her handmade creations.
Jean is survived by her sister, Joan (Mark) Fiene of Rio, WI and special friends, Courtney Usher and Shannon Modla. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Thomas Adair Knapwurst; and her grandparents, Donald and Olive (Backes) Covill, and Arthur and Vera (Thomas) Knapwurst.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jean's life on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Erin's Snug Irish Pub, 4601 American Parkway, Madison, WI. Those who knew Jean are encouraged to share stories, laughter, and memories as they honor a life well lived and a woman who will be deeply missed.
