The Las Positas College community is set to commemorate the life and legacy of late professor emeritus Ken Ross on campus this weekend.

Ross, who was the Livermore community college’s first theater professor, died after a rapid 15-day battle with cancer, according to a statement from LPC last week.

“Known for his infectious laughter, genuine love for theater, and dedication to education, Ken’s passing leaves an indelible void in our hearts,” LPC officials said in the statement.

Ross began his teaching career part-time at LPC’s sister campus, Chabot College, in 1975. He later became the first theater professor at LPC in 1978. Over the next 25 years, Ross served as the head of theater arts, leaving a lasting impression on countless students, colleagues and the broader arts community.

“Ken was an incredible person and director. He cast me in the first production I’d ever been a part of and his gentle, warm, enthusiastic guidance stayed my nerves and taught me what it is to be part of a show,” said former student Kaitlyn Davenport.

She continued, “He made us a family and brought out the best in everyone. Though I knew him for a short time, he made an immense impact on me and I will never forget him, his kind smile, his love for the art, or the lessons he taught.”

Another former student, Kevin Clawson, credited Ross with changing his life. “He was an incredibly kind and funny human being. I feel fortunate to have been a student of his for more years than I deserved to be,” Clawson said.

A mentor and advocate for the arts, Ross’ passion extended beyond the stage. He directed numerous productions, including the first musical at LPC, “Finian’s Rainbow”, and later taught the history of American musical theater online during the coronavirus pandemic.

As a lifelong champion of theater, Ross performed his first professional acting role as a 10-year-old singing, dancing, acting munchkin in “The Wizard of Oz” at the world-famous Muny, the nation’s largest and oldest outdoor musical theater in his hometown of St Louis, according to his bio on the LPC website.

He later received his Bachelor of Arts from Elmhurst College in Chicago, a Master of Arts from San Francisco State University and an MFA from US International University in San Diego.

Colleagues remember Ross as a mentor who freely shared his insights and thoughts on life through lengthy emails about theater, arts and education, according to LPC’s statement. He had a knack for surprising colleagues at their shows and standing in the back during intermission, ready to celebrate their work.

Ross also showed a love for his students. He cherished each one, remembering their performances and celebrating their successes. His home walls adorned with photos of past productions stood as a testament to the passion and creativity he nurtured.

“Las Positas College mourns the loss of a dear friend, mentor, and an integral part of our community. Ken Ross’s legacy will forever resonate in the ethos of the LPC Theater Arts program, which he nurtured and loved every step of the way,” LPC officials said.

A family obituary online said Ross died on Oct. 6 at the age of 81. He is survived by a brother, two stepsisters, two nieces, extended family and many friends, colleagues and former students.

The college is inviting friends, family, colleagues and students to join a celebration of life this Sunday (Jan. 21) at 3 p.m. at the Mertes Center for the Arts, Building 4000, on the LPC campus. A light reception will follow.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be available for online viewing via livestream at https://livestream.com/lpc/KenRossMemorial.