Kenneth H. Cross, Sr Obituary (1923 - 2015)

Kenneth Harrison Cross, Sr., age 91, a longtime resident of Sheridan, passed away Tuesday morning, March 3, 2015 at his home under the loving care of his family and Ionia Area Hospice. The only son of Fred M. & Eva Marie (Mankey) Cross, he was born on May 16, 1923 in New Buffalo. A veteran of World War II, Ken proudly served two tours of duty with the U.S. Army, first as a mortar crewman and then as a light machine gunner and was awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge. In 2003, Representative Dave Camp presented Ken with nine medals including the Bronze Star medal for bravery and valor in combat. A mechanic by trade, Ken retired as a truck driver and was a life long tinkerer. A devoted husband and father, Ken enjoyed gardening, NASCAR racing, and watching the old western movies with his beloved dog and loyal companion, Buddy. On August 28, 1945, at Greenville, he married Mabel Lucille Knapp and together they raised four children and enjoyed almost 55 years of marriage. Ken was a loving husband who cared for Mabel until her death on June 29, 2000. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two half-sisters, Helen and Gladys; and three half-brothers, Howard, Donald, and George. Surviving are four children, Kenneth Jr. & June Cross of Lakeview, Gary L. Cross of Loretto, Pennsylvania, Ronnie R. & Peppy Cross of St. Johns, and Christine Sue Campbell of Belding; nine grandchildren, Gordon, Don, Dan, Janelle, Eric, Sheri, Steve, Kevin, and Joanna; nine great grandchildren; four step-great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. Also surviving are a sister, June Roberts of Greenville, and many nieces and nephews. Visitation is from 12-1 p.m. on Friday at Langston Church (one block east of M-91 in downtown Langston) where funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday. Pastor Robert Morris will officiate and military honors, rendered by the U.S. Army, will conclude the ceremonies.