Howard Cross

MADISON- Howard Cross died in Madison, Wisconsin on July 27th, 2015. He was born on September 20, 1919.

"Howie" was preceded in death by his father Ed, his mother Ethel, his brothers Herman and Ronnie, and his sons Jeff and infant Steve. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Ellen (Leutenmayer), his four children Kathleen, Geraldine, Maureen and Gregory; seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Howie served in the Pacific from 1941 to 1945 as a decorated combat medic with the 158th Infantry "Bushmasters." His children grew up never hearing of his war experiences and the horrific losses to his unit. For thirty years, he was a painter for the State of Wisconsin. Howie was a skilled curler and avid golfer and was proud of his 2 holes in one. He was also a high school basketball and football referee for 32 years. He recalled to his children a time he was chased into a farmhouse by angry fans and another time he was escorted out of town by the police after a local team loss. Howie and Ellen started downhill skiing at the age of 50! Family and friends enjoyed many camping and ski trips to Northern Wisconsin or Colorado in the motor home.

He was proud to be a 4th degree Knight of Columbus and volunteered for many years at the annual spaghetti dinner at the Holy Name Seminary fundraiser and the tootsie roll drive.

He and Ellen enjoyed the winter months with friends in Texas and the summer months at their home in Wisconsin. Howie loved his family (especially the grandkids) and they adored him. We will miss you terribly Howie!

Howie's wife and children would like to thank the many people who provided him support over the last two years. They would especially like to single out their Texas and Madison friends and neighbors and the staff at Oakwood Village and Agrace in Madison.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison on Friday July 31, 2015 at 11:00 am. A visitation will be held at church on Friday from 10:00 am until the time of Mass. Burial will follow the Mass at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

Cress Funeral Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
(608) 238-3434