Roger Cross

Roger Cross was born April 19, 1941, in Garland, Nebraska and died on April 23, 2006, at his home in Fountain Hill, Ariz. He was 65 years old. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Roberta; his daughter, Dr. Kelly Cross Pyritz of Fountain Hills; his son Dr. Doug Cross of Colorado Springs; and 3 grandchildren, Keegan and Alaina Cross of Colorado Springs and Bailey Pyritz of Fountain Hills. He is also survived by a brother, Dr. Rex Cross of Key West, Fla.; a sister, Terry Burge of Columbus, Nebr.; and many dear lifelong friends.

Roger grew up in Trenton, Nebraska, graduated from Trenton High School, McCook Junior College and Idaho State University where he also played football. He received his Master's Degree in Education from Adams State College in 1969. He coached football and taught math in Idaho and Indiana and played semi-professional football for the Indianapolis Capitols in 1969.

He moved to Columbus in 1970 where he raised his family and owned Countryside Homes. He was involved with numerous community organizations including the YMCA to which he was a generous donor. He served three terms as president of the Nebraska Manufactured Housing Association and twice received their distinguished service award. He was also actively involved with the Elks organization for many years.

He moved to Fountain Hills in 1996 and enjoyed a "semi retired but still working" lifestyle filled with golf and the restorations of his 1949 Ford and 1951 Chevy. He loved traveling throughout the United States in his motorhome and enjoyed singing country music and recording CD's of his music for family and friends.

A memorial service is Friday, April 28th at 10 a.m. at Messinger Fountain Hills Mortuary, 12065 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills, Ariz.

Messinger Fountain Hills Mortuary is in charge of arrangements