Ross grew up in New Ulm, Minnesota, in a home that was the heart of the neighborhood. With a mom at home and a dad working for the DNR, his childhood was filled with hunting dogs and outdoor adventures. The Ross household was the place to be—summers were spent around the family pool, and the basement was a respectful sanctuary where he and his sister could hang out with friends. This upbringing taught Ross the importance of creating a home where everyone feels welcome and at ease.

After college, Ross’s desire to give back led him to the Peace Corps. This was a great fit for a guy who loved having roots but also enjoyed traveling. He taught Chemistry and Physics to highschool kids in Tanzania. During breaks he traveled around East Africa. Fun fact, while he was busy grading papers he didn't know that his future wife, Kim, was in Tanzania climbing Kilimanjaro!   

Ross enjoys woodworking. He has built a cedar canoe, cabinets, cutting boards, and benches. His love for nature follows him into the kitchen and the yard. He enjoys baking homemade breads, firing up the pizza oven, and experimenting with "odd" varieties of tomatoes and melons in his vegetable garden. He’s always dreaming of the next project, like the giant koi pond he plans to build so the whole family can swim together. He also enjoys tending to his saltwater and freshwater aquariums.