Roscoe “Ross” Phillip Herseth was born on November 2, 1946, to Phillip and Helen (Gustafson) Herseth in Drayton, ND. On November 11, 2025, Ross passed away peacefully, surrounded by the people who loved him most, at the Little Hospice House in Edina, MN. He now joins his parents, Phillip and Helen, who welcomed him home.
Ross was baptized and confirmed in the Teien Covenant Church of Kennedy, MN. He grew up on the family farm, where he quickly developed a gift for understanding how things worked. He could fix almost anything, and his mechanical intuition made him an invaluable partner to his father.
After college, Ross began a long and rewarding career in the Twin Cities with Gold Bond Stamp Company as an auditor. The job took him across the country and overseas, offering him experiences he loved to share through stories. Gold Bond eventually became Carlson Companies, where Ross built a 40-year career, forming friendships and earning respect that lasted after he retired as Marketing Director in 2011.
In retirement, Ross found his favorite place of all—his home on Lake Franklin near Pelican Rapids, MN. The lake quickly became the heartbeat of family life. Whether it was an afternoon pontoon ride, a late-summer bonfire, or a simple quiet moment by the water, Ross created a place where everyone felt welcome.
Ross is survived by people who loved him deeply: his brother, Ralph (Kathy) Herseth; his wife, Janice Carr-Herseth; his former wife, Catherine Herseth—the mother of his children; his sons, Michael (Lindsey) Herseth and Mark (Alison) Herseth; and his seven grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. He also opened his heart to Janice’s sons, Robert (Jami) Carr and Samuel (Ashley) Carr, and their four children, who became an important part of his life and family.
To honor Ross, the family will hold two services. The first will take place at 3 p.m. (CT) on November 22, 2025, at the Roseau Covenant Church in Roseau, MN. A Celebration of Life gathering will also be held at the Cremation Society of Minnesota in Edina, with the date and time to be announced.
Last modified: 11/17/2025
