Craig R Cross

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Craig R. Cross, a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, on April 26, 2026. Born on January 15, 1951, in Sterling, Colorado, Craig's life was a testament to kindness, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. Craig was the beloved son of Irving and Patricia Cross, who nurtured his early years and instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion. He was a proud graduate of Ft. Collins High School in 1969, where he embraced his identity as a Lambkin with boundless enthusiasm. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Colorado State University, where he laid the foundation for a career marked by diligence and perseverance. In 1973, Craig embarked on a new chapter with his marriage to Jennie (Ridnour). With her, he embraced the role of father to three children, a role he cherished deeply. Though they parted ways in 2002, the family they created remained a central pillar of his life. Craig's career spanned over four decades in the sugar industry, beginning in Colorado with 23 years in concrete work, before moving to Worland, Wyoming in 1979. There, he transitioned to farming and later became a maintenance supervisor at Holly Sugar. His journey eventually led him to Michigan Sugar, where he continued his supervisory role. Outside of work, Craig found joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid fisherman, he relished every opportunity to teach his grandchildren the art of angling, sharing with them the serenity of nature and the thrill of a catch. A lifelong Denver Broncos fan, Craig's loyalty to his team was unwavering, a testament to his steadfast spirit. Craig was a man who never met a stranger, His sense of humor, often punctuated by playful quips, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Though he harbored a notable aversion to spiders—a fact his grandchildren delighted in exploiting. He is survived by his loving children Connie Sherman, Marty (Julie) Cross, and Babbee (Shane) Wiggins; his cherished grandchildren Brandy Allen, Luke (Elyssa) Allen, Tessa (Travis) Stevens, Robert (Amanda) Cross, Ryan Cross, Chad (Madison) Cross, Shawntel (Justin) Bivens, Wyatt (Bailey) Wiggins, Chip Wiggins, and Megan Wiggins (Jon Ortiz); and his treasured great-grandchildren Harley & Quinton Allen, Aspyn & Cass Allen, Heath, Shaia, Eliana Hersh, Colton Cross, Sylvia & Walker Cross, Tinleigh & Oakleigh Bivens, Rylee (Lexi), Ryan, Ryder, Hope, Faith, & Riggs Wiggins, Gabe Decker, Isabella Klein, and Maddie Wiggins. He also leaves behind his adored fur grandchildren, Apple, Herman, Leonard, and Billy. Craig was predeceased by his parents, and his beloved dog, Sugar. In the words of his family, "Dad and Grandpa will be missed. He was a great man, who would do anything for anyone. His sense of humor will live on in the little quotes that we all still use. He will live on in our hearts and minds forever." Craig R. Cross leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived. His spirit will continue to inspire those he touched, and his memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends.