LeRoy “Bud” Aatin Gross Jr., 74, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bud was born on July 12, 1952, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to Wilma Evans Gross and LeRoy Gross Sr. In 1962, his family moved to Crocker, South Dakota, where they owned and operated a gas station and restaurant. In 1970, they relocated to Raymond, South Dakota, where the family farmed.

In 1972, Bud met the love of his life, Carol Weigandt. Just three months later, they were married in the dry cleaners in Clark, South Dakota. Carol always joked that she “literally took him to the cleaners.” One year later, on their first anniversary, they celebrated their marriage again in the church.

Together, Bud and Carol began building their life and family. Their son was born in 1974, and in 1976 they moved to Verdon, South Dakota, where Bud worked for a local farmer until a back injury changed their plans. In 1977, they moved to Clark, where their daughters were born in 1978 and 1979, completing the family they so deeply cherished.

In 1980, the family made Murdo, South Dakota, their permanent home, where Bud would live for the remainder of his life.

It was in Murdo that Bud’s lifelong work ethic and talent for fixing anything truly came to life. A true jack of all trades, he worked in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, mechanics, sales, and even operated a tow truck. There was very little Bud couldn’t fix or figure out—often including things his wife had taken apart just to see how they worked.

In 1982, he opened his own mechanic shop, where he served countless customers with honesty, skill, and dedication. In 2010, he expanded his work by founding All Pro Towing while continuing his mechanic business. Even after retiring in 2020 due to health issues, Bud’s desire to work and help others never faded.

Helping people was not just what Bud did—it was who he was. Day or night, with or without payment, he never hesitated to answer a call for help. He believed people deserved support when they needed it most, and he gave freely of his time and abilities without expectation. This need to help others led to him being a volunteer firefighter for over 20 years.

Alongside his work, Bud built a life centered on family. He was fiercely independent and rarely asked for help himself, preferring instead to be the one others could rely on. His compassion for people was matched only by his deep love for his family. He never missed an opportunity to tell those around him that he loved them, making sure his family and friends always knew their importance in his life.

Bud was also known for his unforgettable sense of humor. He loved telling a good joke, hearing an even better one, and sharing his contagious laugh. Even in his final days, his quick wit and sharp mind remained, bringing comfort and smiles to those gathered around him.

Bud leaves behind the love of his life and wife of 54 years, Carol Gross; his children, LeRoy Gross III; Lori (John) Oerlline of Black Hawk, South Dakota; and Lynette (Cody) of Murdo, South Dakota. He is also survived by seven beloved grandchildren: Chandler, Kameron, LeRoy IV, Chastin, Matthew, Kolton, and Savannah; three step-grandchildren, Nicole, Logan, and Macey; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and very special cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilma and LeRoy Gross Sr.; his sisters, Jill and Susan; his parents-in-law, Leonard and Bernice Weigandt; and his son-in-law, Jesse Tollakson.

Bud’s life was defined by hard work, generosity, laughter, and unconditional love. The countless lives he touched through his kindness, willingness to help, and caring heart will forever be his greatest legacy. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Cards and memorials may be sent to:
607 Garfield Ave.
Murdo, SD 57559