Ross began lobbying Bay Area individuals for exercise equipment donations last month with the intent of providing area elderly with an exercise opportunity, The Oakland (Calif.) Tribune reported Friday.

Polly Olsen, who works as an assistant administrator at the home for the elderly where Ross stayed, said the site would still go through with his exercise plan.

"It's sad," she said of Ross' April 30 death. "We're going to dedicate the exercise room to him."

His son, Lance Ross, said the 1946 Mr. America champion was dedicated to staying in shape no matter his age.

"He was the consummate professional," Lance said of his father, who died of cardiac arrest. "He enjoyed being healthy and in shape."

The Tribune said in addition to his son, Ross is survived by a daughter and stepson.