Kenneth Preston "Ken" Cross

Kenneth "Ken" Preston Cross, 90, of El Dorado, Kansas, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026. He was born on August 9, 1935, in Moran to John Cross and Myrtle Olive (Smith) Cross.

Ken graduated from Moran High School with the Class of 1953. He went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Air Force, a chapter of his life that reflected his deep patriotism and sense of duty.

On March 18, 1962, he married the love of his life, Jane Robinson, in Murdock, Kansas. Together, they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and shared adventures. Jane survives him.

Ken was a dedicated barber and small business owner in El Dorado, Kansas. He owned and operated Plaza Barber Shop from 1965 until his retirement in 1999. For more than three decades, his shop was more than a place for a haircut-it was a gathering spot where stories were shared, friendships were formed, and the community came together. Ken took great pride in his work and in serving generations of families with a steady hand and a warm smile.

An outdoorsman at heart, Ken loved hunting and fishing, target shooting, running, and camping beneath the open sky. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully cheered on the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs. He was also a proud supporter of the BUCO Grizzlies. Kenneth held a special place in his heart for Alaska, where he lived for several years and experienced the rugged beauty and adventure he so deeply appreciated.

He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his devotion to his country, his love for the outdoors, his support of his church, and his unwavering dedication to his family and community. Ken's legacy of kindness, integrity, and steadfast love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Cross, of El Dorado; his children, Kevin (Marisol) Cross, of Wichita, and Janice (Gary) Knox, of Kechi; 2 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in passing by his parents, his brothers Donald and Delmar Cross, and his sisters Freda Miller and Lola Cooper.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Trinity United Methodist Church in El Dorado. A graveside service with military honors will take place at 1:00 PM at Sunset Lawns Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Ken's name may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church or the American Red Cross Blood Services.

Please sign his online guest book and leave a memory at www.carlsonkirbymorris.com