Michael Ross Funeral and Catherine Gilligan Relocation Fund

Dear family, friends and kind hearted acquaintances and strangers…. it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Ross (BEAR) . a gentle soul who always had a kind or positive word for anyone he met, and a love for all living animals. Living a modest life and always putting others before himself, Bears (Michael's) passing came as a complete surprise to many. Just recently, Bear came through with flying colors on his EKG and blood work. So it was a shock, leaving Catherine , Bears other half of almost 27 years, numb as she was awakened from a nap by a loud sound, only to find the back door open with their beloved dog Bella walking in alone without Bear. Bear was taking Bella for her nightly walk. Cathy assumed Bear must be outside talking to a neighbor. So you can imagine the shock of walking to the door only to find Bear lying on the ground. Cathy attempted CPR while calling 911. The EMTs did everything they could upon arrival to their apartment and while en-route to ER, but Bears heart was too tired💔.Both Bear and Cathy lived on a very modest income, due to health and disabilities. Barely enough to survive this crazy housing market. But they had “each other”! Like many other folks today, Bear and Cathy lived day to day, week to week, and month to month. Cathy has just undergone two total knee replacements. The most recent was just this past April. Bear and Cathy did everything together. No one can ever be prepared to lose a loved one. Even when it is expected. Not sure that there is ever a full recovery. 😢

Other than Cathy, their beloved dog Bella and cat Sampson, Bear is survived by two cousins and five second cousins, his best friend Josh Clevenger and family( Bear was family) !

This unexpected loss, has left Cathy uncertain of tomorrow.There is no way that Cathy can continue to reside in the apartment in which they lived together with their dog Bella and cat Sampson, which is only $1000 a month. Cathys current income alone is less than $1300.00 per month. In addition to getting whatever assistance she can, Cathy needs help. There is no known life insurance, pension or survivor benefits for Cathy since they were not legally married. I believe with all my heart that there are good and kind people in this world , like Bear and Cathy, and together we can raise enough to get Bear laid to rest and Cathy safely to Ohio where she can have a better chance of survival on her income alone. Putting together figures, it will take about $5000+ to cover expenses for Bear and to help Cathy to relocate to live with a niece in Ohio.

We have also set up alternative donation methods for anyone who can help us with Bear and Cathy. And if you are like many others who are struggling to get by… we offer our prayers to you🙏🏻and ask for your prayers in return 🙏🏻.

We know that Bear would be grateful to those who can help. He would want everyone to keep a song in their hearts and a smile on their lips.

Thank you to all who are able to help. Other forms of donations can be sent through Zelle, Cash App, or Venmo. Please email Cathy for Information on all other forms of donations .