Michael Ray Cross

Michael Ray Cross

April 21, 1942 – February 26, 2015

Beloved Husband, Father and Papa

Michael Ray Cross, 72 passed away peacefully on Thursday February 26 at Orchard Cove Rehabilitation Facility. After many years of successful management of his diabetes, recent complications resulted in his weakened condition. Although he left us earlier than we expected, we are grateful that he is no longer confined to an earthly body that kept him from doing the things he enjoyed.

Mike was born April 21, 1942 in Bakersfield, California to Delbert Gail Cross and Dorothy Louise Daugherty. In 1960, Michael graduated from East Bakersfield High School and enlisted in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Jason AR8 until being honorably discharged in 1964.

Michael married his eternal companion, Sharon Dee O’Brien on August 20, 1966. He began his career at Pacific Gas and Electric Company as a groundman one week later. He worked in many capacities, retiring 30 years later as a senior meterman. His hard work was evidence of his love and devotion to his family.

Michael and Sharon were blessed with two daughters. As a family, they joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1978 and were sealed for time and all eternity one year later in the Los Angeles Temple.

Michael served as a faithful, active member of the church. He had the opportunity to serve as Elders Quorum President, Bishop and on the Stake High Council. He especially enjoyed serving alongside Sharon as a temple ordinance worker and as missionaries in the Salt Lake Inner City Project.

Michael had MANY hobbies. Most of all, he looked forward to his next hobby. Among his favorites were anything having to do with a gun, fishing, gardening, eating out, canoeing, bicycling, backpacking, cooking, genealogy, and photography.  He kept bees, mice, rabbits, chickens, pheasants, quail, and finches.  He was a jack of all trades and could fix just about anything.  He loved technology, and always kept up with the latest advances.  He could turn anything into a game which delighted his children and later his grandchildren.  He was a kid at heart and could always be counted on for a good story and a fun time. 

Michael is survived by his wife Sharon, his children Kellie (John) Jones, and Tiffany (Lance) Tempest, both of Kaysville, Utah, ten grandchildren, sister, Marylou and husband Bob Hawkins, and brother-in-law David and wife Nancy O’Brien.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Gail Patrick Cross and sister Rosalie Ann Cross.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 2 at 11:00 am at the Val Verda Stake Center, 460 W 2600 S, Bountiful UT. Viewing services will be held Sunday March 1 from 6:30-8:00 pm at Russon Brother’s Mortuary, 295 N Main, Bountiful and at the chapel on Monday from 9:45-10:45. Interment: Bountiful Memorial Park. Condolences may be sent to Russon Brothers at 295 N Main, Bountiful, UT 84010. Online guestbook at www.russonmortuary.com.