Corrine Katherine Ross

Corrine (Lipp) Ross, 85, passed away peacefully at her home in Wahpeton, North Dakota, on June 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and in the compassionate care of hospice.

Corrine was born on April 28, 1941, in Linton, North Dakota, to Philip and Elizabeth (Baumgartner) Lipp. She was the youngest of seven children and grew up surrounded by the love and support of her large family. She attended St. Anthony’s Catholic School through the eighth grade and graduated from Linton High School in 1959.

Following high school, Corrine attended Valley City State College, where she earned her Standard Teaching Certificate. She later transferred to Moorhead State University and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Teaching was not simply her profession—it was her passion. During her 30-year career, she taught in schools throughout North Dakota and Minnesota, with the majority of those years spent at St. Mary’s School in Breckenridge, Minnesota. She touched the lives of countless students through her patience, encouragement, and dedication to helping children learn and grow.

While attending Moorhead State University, Corrine met the love of her life, Neil Ross. They were united in marriage on August 21, 1965, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Linton, North Dakota. Together, they made their home in Breckenridge, Minnesota, where they lovingly raised their two daughters, Tonya and Hayley.

Family was the center of Corrine’s life. She cherished her daughters and found her greatest joy in being a grandmother. Her grandson, Ty, was the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent playing games, reading stories, and making memories with him. She also shared a special bond with her son-in-law, Kent, and enjoyed her step-grandchildren, Bobby and Jeanna.

Corrine was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and was active in the Christian Mothers organization. She was also a member of the National Catholic Education Association and the Minnesota Education Association and served as both a member and officer of ARC. She generously gave of her time and talents to her church, profession, and community.

She had a creative spirit and enjoyed painting, sewing, and reading. She was known for her quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and ability to make others laugh. She also never passed up a good cup of coffee or a piece of chocolate—simple pleasures that brought her much happiness. Her kindness, intelligence, and gentle nature left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Corrine was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Elizabeth; her brothers, Alvin, Steven, Ralph, and Richard; her sister, Lucille; brothers-in-law Keith Doran and Duane Ross; sisters-in-law Genevieve Lipp, Nancy Lipp, Elaine Ross, and Renae (Ross) Olson; her mother-in-law, Josephine; and her step-granddaughter, Jeanna.

She is survived by her beloved husband of more than 60 years, Neil Ross; her daughters, Tonya Ross and Hayley (Ross) Ness; her son-in-law, Kent Ness; her cherished grandson, Ty Ness; her step-grandson, Bobby Ness; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, former students, and dear friends.

In the final moments of her earthly journey, with peace and joy in her heart, some of Corrine’s last words were, “I’m so happy. Lord, let me in.” These words beautifully reflected the steadfast faith that sustained her throughout her life and the hope she carried as she entered her eternal home with Christ.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her love, wisdom, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Her legacy lives on in the lives of her family, the many students she taught, and all who were blessed to know her.

Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Breckenridge, Minnesota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Breckenridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to CHI Health at Home in Breckenridge, Minnesota, in appreciation for the compassionate care and support provided to Corrine and her family during her final days.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7