Roofing Industry Committee On Weather Issues, Inc.

RICOWI and Industry Suffers a Great Loss

For Immediate Release:
[Atlanta, GA. February 5, 2007]

Many of us are still reeling from the shock of losing Ross Robertson very suddenly on January 24, 2007 at the young age of 54.

Ross joined RICOWI as an Affiliate member in March, 2003. He attended many seminars over the last ten years and seldom missed a meeting since he joined the association. He served as a team member on investigations for Hurricane Charley and the Oklahoma City hail storm. He was ready to deploy with the team for the 2007 hurricane season.

The team members that worked with Ross on the investigations commented on how detail oriented he was and on his vast experience and overall knowledge in the science of roofing. RICOWI's Executive Director, Patty Wood-Shields said "he very willingly gave up the weekend before his death to plot the Hurricane Katrina investigation site maps that will be included in the final Hurricane Katrina Investigation Report that is due to be released in March." She reported that when Ross was asked to do this, he simply said "I know how important this is and I like to do what I can to help out." That was so typical of him. He was a man of integrity and held in high esteem by his colleagues and friends. RICOWI's Chair Rick Olson said "our Board of Directors unanimously agreed to dedicate the Hurricane Katrina Final Report to Ross in his honor."

Greg Brandt (Firestone) stated "you just can't replace a man like Ross Robertson." We all share that sentiment. Ross has left his mark on industry, the hearts of many friends and will not be forgotten. Following is the obituary.

Ross Hartford Robertson
"Papaw Bugs"
February 13, 1953 - January 24, 2007

On January 29th, this beloved father of four, passed away at his at home in Cicero, Indiana. He is survived by his parents, G. Edwin and Marilyn (Johnson) Robertson; two daughters, Kelly (Robertson) Goodall and her husband Bryan, and Jennifer Robertson; two sons, Andrew and Dustin Robertson; two siblings, Lynda Robertson and T. Edwin Robertson. Papaw Bugs is also survived by three grandchildren; Isaiah Knight (grand-son), Payton, and Kadence Goodall (grand-daughters).

Ross was a Senior Systems Engineer with Firestone Building Products Company where he dedicated 25 years of loyal service. He was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman who enjoyed sharing tales of his adventures to anyone who cared to listen. He was a friend to all and could answer just about any question you could think to ask. He will be sorely missed.

A Memorial service was held February 10, 2007