An early visionary leader in Kansas, Matt Ross was instrumental in the development of modern-day Overland Park. He died in 2003 at the age of 94. Married for 75 years, Ross was an Iowa farm boy who served more than 50 years as a founder, leader, worker, innovator, and advisor to the city and its residents. His legacy includes many contributions which are still evident in today’s Overland Park. The Matt Ross Community Center opened its doors in August of 2007 in the heart of downtown Overland Park, not far from where Mr. Ross first opened the Ben Franklin Variety Store in 1949.

An early visionary leader in Kansas, Matt Ross was instrumental in the development of modern-day Overland Park. He died in 2003 at the age of 94.

Married for 75 years, Ross was an Iowa farm boy who served more than 50 years as a founder, leader, worker, innovator, and advisor to the city and its residents. His legacy includes many contributions which are still evident in today’s Overland Park.

The Matt Ross Community Center opened its doors in August of 2007 in the heart of downtown Overland Park, not far from where Mr. Ross first opened the Ben Franklin Variety Store in 1949.