Ross Stribling passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026, at the Gladeview Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Old Saybrook. He was born on April 3, 1942, in Kirksville, Missouri.

A proud Chief Petty Officer and Navy veteran, Ross served as a submariner from 1961 to 1974 aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. After his military service, he attended Mitchell College in New London, Connecticut, and later earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Hartford.

He was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Erma (Gibbs) Stribling, and earlier this year by his beloved partner, Rita Nowakowski.

Throughout his life, Ross held many jobs, owned several businesses, and worked hard to support his family. He was especially proud of his military service and of the many years he spent on the Board of Education at East Lyme High School while his children attended.

Ross is survived by his two children, David Stribling (Kim) and Dana Protsko (Dennis); three grandchildren, Jordan Foster (Nicholas), Jack Varley, and Andrew Stribling; and four great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Gladeview Rehabilitation for the excellent care they provided Ross over the past few months, as well as the Middlesex Hospice program for their care and guidance.

A private service and burial with military honors will be held at the Connecticut State Veterans' Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the VFW of Connecticut. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.