Ross A. Scardina, Sr.

A longtime resident of Glendale, Arizona, Ross was known for being hard-working, kind-hearted, and thoughtful.

Ross was a Career Veteran and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) in the United States Air Force, having served his country for 28 years. His career began with the Army Air Corps before transitioning into the United States Air Force. He was named Enlisted Serviceman of the Year in 1979. Ross was a member of the B-52 Formal Training Unit and held an Intelligence Fundamentals Professional Certification. He was awarded numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal with one oakleaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oakleaf cluster, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one silver oakleaf cluster. Ross also received the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with one silver oakleaf cluster, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Military Education Ribbon, among others. After retiring from the service, he spent 22 years in the private sector for the military.

On Valentine's Day in 1961, Ross married Donna Riser while stationed at Lockbourne AFB. They shared over 54 years of marriage until Donna's passing on December 21, 2015

Ross is survived by his daughter Lee A. (Mary Profeta) Scardina of Sun City, AZ, and his son Ross "Tony" A. (Lori Ann) Scardina, Jr. of Surprise, AZ. He was a beloved Papaw to four cherished grandchildren: Ross A. Scardina III, Stephanie Davis, Kayleigh Becker & Shawna Stringer(deceased).

He is also survived by his sister Ginny Houghton, brother John (Joyce) Scardina, brother-in-law Bill Riser. With remembrance to his deceased brother Jim but blessed with several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 16, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at West Resthaven Funeral Home, 6450 West Northern Avenue, Glendale. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 13720 West Thomas Road, Avondale. Ross will be laid to rest with full military honors at Resthaven Park Cemetery, 6450 West Northern Avenue, Glendale, AZ.