JIM CROSS

Jim Cross, husband, father of three and grandfather of four, died on Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, surrounded by his family. Jim was born on Sept. 24, 1943, in Tulsa, Okla., to parents Howell and Virginia Cross. He grew up in Dallas and Houston, then moved to Kansas where he majored in chemistry at the University of Kansas, graduating in 1965. Following graduation he served as a First Lieutenant in the army until 1968, after which he received his master's degree in business at Texas Christian University. In 1971 he was married to Melissa Cross in Clarendon, Texas. Jim began his career by taking several roles within the chemistry and environmental fields. He ultimately developed a love of computers and built a career in information technology, working for the past many years at the Department of Agriculture. Jim raised his family and lived for the past 35 years in Lee's Summit, Mo., where he was a founding and active member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Jim's love and devotion were to faith, family, and friends. He was also a brilliant man who loved to play trivia and was a member of Mensa. He was a big Chiefs and Royals fan and actively followed both along with KU Basketball. Jim is survived by his wife of 41 years, Melissa Cross, his brother, Dennis Cross (Peggy), and his sister, Mary Ellen Rose (Fred). Jim leaves behind three children, Adam Cross (Jody) of Kansas City, Mo., Katie McFarlane (Neil) of Lee's Summit, Mo., and Stephen Cross of Los Angeles, Calif. He also treasured his four grandchildren, Jason Cross, Isaac Cross, Elise McFarlane, and Alex McFarlane. Jim also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and close friends. All of whom will miss him dearly. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 1, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lee's Summit. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to "The Jim Cross Memorial" for the family to donate to a charity of their choice and sent care of their church.